Classical variation guide
James · Variation 1
Also known as James Variation 1 · La Sylphide James Variation 1 · La Sylphide · James Variation 1
La Sylphide · Act II · Forest Scene
Male
Advanced
August Bournonville
Herman Severin Løvenskiold
About this variation
James’s first male variation from La Sylphide belongs to the Act II forest world, after he has followed the Sylph away from his wedding and into the supernatural realm. The solo combines buoyant elevation, quick footwork, and restrained Romantic expression, keeping James youthful, searching, and completely absorbed by the world he has chosen to enter.
Performance quality
Romantic, buoyant, youthful, searching, and refined
Training focus
Build clean takeoffs and landings, quick precise footwork, coordinated épaulement, and a lifted upper body that stays calm through the allegro. Keep the movement light and musical so the Bournonville style remains clear.
Key elements
Grand jumps · Pirouettes · Batterie · Quick footwork