Set within the rigid world of the Austro-Hungarian court, the ballet follows Crown Prince Rudolf, a deeply troubled heir consumed by obsession, political pressure, and a fixation on death. Isolated from family and society, he forms an intense relationship with the young Baroness Mary Vetsera, who shares his fatalistic outlook.

The ballet was choreographed by Kenneth MacMillan (Romeo and Juliet, Manon), whose work is known for its psychological depth and complex narrative structure. The scenario was developed by Gillian Freeman, drawing directly from historical accounts of the Mayerling incident. The score is arranged and orchestrated by John Lanchbery from works by Franz Liszt, including selections from the Faust Symphony and Mephisto Waltz No. 1, aligning the music’s dramatic intensity with the emotional extremes of the story.

Designs for the production are by Nicholas Georgiadis, with lighting by John B. Read, creating a visual world that reflects both imperial grandeur and personal collapse. A longstanding pillar of The Royal Ballet’s repertory since its 1978 premiere, the work is recognized for its demanding principal roles and its integration of historical narrative with expressive classical dance.