Legacy of Le Train Bleu

When Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes Le Train Bleu first debuted in 1924, audiences applauded the fresh contemporary approach of the one-act ballet, complete with costumes by Gabrielle Chanel and stage cloth painted by scenic artist Prince Alexander Schervashidze, enlarging the design by Picasso – both now held in the V&A’s permanent collection.

Just over a century later, this groundbreaking giant artwork will go on display in a purpose built gallery in V&A East Storehouse, after careful conservation, supported by CHANEL. In addition, the ballet has been reimagined by award-winning English National Ballet Associate Choreographer Stina Quagebeur, including costumes reinterpreted by English National Ballet’s Costume Atelier with the kind permission of CHANEL.

Join Quagebeur in conversation with V&A Curator of Dance Jane Pritchard for an exploration of the history of this influential work, and how it has continued to inspire the world of dance for more than 100 years.