Birmingham Royal Ballet

Two programmes from Birmingham Royal Ballet. Firstly, a triple bill, featuring Ninette de Valois's 'Checkmate' (where the dancers all play different pieces on a chessboard), Ashton's 'Symphonic Variations' and John Cranko's 'Pineapple Poll', set to a Gilbert and Sullivan medley. Secondly, Ashton's charming comedy 'La Fille Mal Gardée' – gentle, engaging and if played well, rather amusing.