La Vivandière (Gilbert)

La Vivandière is a ballet in one act with choreography by Arthur Saint-Léon and music by Cesare Pugni. It is also known as Markitenkan. The ballet was first presented by the Imperial Ballet at the Imperial Bolshoi Kamenny Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia, on December 6 [O.S. November 24] 1844. Fanny Elssler danced the role of Kathi.

The original choreography by Saint-Léon is now lost. A Pas de Six from La Vivandière was revived by Marius Petipa in 1855 for his benefit performance. This Pas de Six survives today in various versions, including one staged by Pierre Lacotte in 1979.

The ballet tells the story of Kathi, a vivandière (a French term for a female sutler or canteen keeper, particularly in a military context), who is loved by Hans, a peasant. The plot revolves around their romance and the challenges they face, often involving comical elements. The Pas de Six, the only surviving portion of the original ballet, showcases the dancers' virtuosity and precision. It is considered a gem of the Romantic era.