A far cry from the Disney film, this interpretation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale blends theater and dance to tell a haunting story of unrequited love. Evocative choreography, costumes, and design—all by the Hamburg Ballet’s John Neumeier—combine with composer Lera Auerbach’s plaintive modern music to create powerful expressionistic drama. What’s more, the dancers are splendid—particularly Yuan Yuan Tan, who is elegant and touching in the title role. Friday, Dec. 16, at 9 p.m., PBS; check local listings
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