Ashton Inspired: Richard Alston

Richard Alston on Frederick Ashton: exploring form, musicality and legacy. 'Ashton Inspired: Choreographers' celebrates the remarkable legacy of Frederick Ashton, Founder Choreographer of The Royal Ballet and a defining figure in British dance. This series takes viewers behind the scenes with leading contemporary choreographers, delving into some of Ashton’s most cherished works and the creative processes behind them. Through candid discussion and unique insights, the films explore how Ashton’s distinctive movement language and creative vision inspire dance-makers of today, just as his ballets continue to captivate audiences worldwide. In this episode, Richard Alston recalls working with Frederick Ashton, and reflects on the choreographer’s enduring influence on his own work. Through the lens of Oberon’s 'Scherzo' from 'The Dream', he highlights Ashton’s masterful distillation of both narrative and score—exploring the expressive dance language and meticulous interplay of musicality and character in this excerpt. Created for The Frederick Ashton Foundation by dance filmmaker Lynne Wake.