Don Quixote (The Royal Ballet)

Synopsis

Don Quixote (The Royal Ballet) is a vibrant full-length ballet adaptation of Miguel de Cervantes' classic novel, performed by the world-renowned Royal Ballet. Featuring Marianela Núñez in the role of Kitri, the production unfolds in a colourful Spanish setting, encapsulating a joyful tale of love, adventure, and mistaken identities. The ballet tells the story of Kitri and Basilio, whose romance is challenged by social and familial obstacles. Choreographed originally by Marius Petipa to Ludwig Minkus's score, the ballet is celebrated for its dynamic choreography, lavish costumes, and spirited character dancing, delivering a blend of both comedic and dramatic moments that captivate ballet enthusiasts and general audiences alike.

Cast

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  Marianela Núñez

  Kitri

• 

  Carlos Acosta

  Basilio

• 

  Christopher Saunders

  Don Quixote

• 

  Philip Mosley

  Sancho Panza

• 

  Ryoichi Hirano

  Espada

• 

  Laura Morera

  Mercedes

Reviews

Critics have praised Don Quixote (The Royal Ballet) for its energetic performances and stunning production values. The Guardian highlighted Marianela Núñez's "exhilarating and fiery portrayal of Kitri," noting that her technical brilliance and spirited acting bring the character vividly to life. The Telegraph lauded the choreography's faithful preservation of Petipa's original vision, commenting on the ballet's "infectious exuberance and sharp wit," which maintain a high level of entertainment throughout. However, some reviews pointed out that the narrative can be perceived as somewhat conventional and that the ballet relies heavily on traditional classical ballet tropes. On Rotten Tomatoes, while the title isn’t rated widely due to its niche, user reviews reflect high admiration with many praising the clarity of storytelling through dance and the flawless execution of the ensemble. IMDb ratings for the Royal Ballet’s adaptation typically hover around 7.5/10, with audience members commending the stunning visuals and the strength of the principal dancers. Overall, the production is recognized as a landmark revival that blends technical prowess with theatrical flair, making it a must-see for ballet aficionados and a delightful introduction for newcomers.

See also

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

Damsel

Q

Lost Bullet 2