Mayerling (ballet)

Mayerling is a full-length ballet created by Kenneth MacMillan for the Royal Ballet in 1978. The ballet tells the story of Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria-Hungary, and the events surrounding his suicide pact with his mistress, Baroness Mary Vetsera, at the Mayerling hunting lodge in 1889.

The ballet is known for its dark and complex psychological themes, its emotionally intense choreography, and its large cast of characters. It depicts Rudolf as a troubled and unstable figure, plagued by inner demons and struggling with the pressures of his position. The narrative explores themes of political intrigue, familial dysfunction, addiction, and sexual obsession.

Mayerling features a score composed by Franz Liszt, arranged by John Lanchbery. The ballet is notable for its use of pas de deux to explore the complicated relationships between Rudolf and the various women in his life: his mother Empress Elisabeth, his wife Princess Stephanie, his mistress Baroness Mary Vetsera, and other figures in the Viennese court.

The ballet premiered on 14 February 1978 at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London. Since then, it has become a signature work in the Royal Ballet's repertoire and has been performed by many other ballet companies worldwide. It is considered one of MacMillan's most significant and challenging works.