show category: ballet

Although Cervantes’ Don Quixote novel inspired several ballet productions signed by some notorious choreographers, the Balșoi production (1869) that was born from Marius Petipa’s and Ludwig Minkus’ collaboration brought, at least to the second of them, not just an unprecedented success, but also the Imperial Ballet from Sankt Petersburg’s official composer position.

Indeed, the rhythmic vivacity and enchantingly melodious music of the Austrian composer matched perfectly the comic scenario centered around lovers Kitri and Basil, and Don Quixote. Smitten by Kitri’s beauty, which makes him confuse her with Dulcineea – the lady of his dreams – Don Quixote starts his search for the girl, after she runs from home with Basil, to avoid being parted by her father. The knight will contribute significantly to bringing the two lovers together, tricking Lorenzo – Kitri’s father – into accepting their marriage. Thus, the “vicissitudes” fallen over the couple are blithely overpassed. The story ends with a sumptuous wedding party, attended for a few moments, by the wandering knight and his squire Sancho Panza.

The performance has one break and ends around 8.45 p.m.

Recommended age: 5+