Rudolf Nureyev’s Don Quixote returns to the stage, a flagship production of the La Scala Ballet Company since 1980, when the famous ballet entered the repertoire with Nureyev himself in the lead alongside Carla Fracci. With its lively energy and the warm colours of the production by Raffaele Del Savio and Anna Anni, it will transport the audience with freshness, joy, virtuosity, and rich choreography to a captivating Spain, featuring gypsy dances, fandangos, matadors, windmills, and the suspended candour of the Garden of the Dryads. Set to Minkus’ immediate music, the adventures of Don Quixote and his loyal squire Sancho Panza intertwine, or rather serve as the backdrop for a love story and an evening of sparkling, temperamental dance, with amusing secondary roles and virtuosic leading parts. Through escapades, deceptions, and disguises, Don Quixote will dance with his Dulcinea, while the young Kitri and the barber Basilio will realise their dream.

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Don Quixote

Teatro alla Scala

Once again this year the young Ballet School students become acquainted with the great masters of the classical, modern and contemporary repertoires. To these aspiring young artists, dancing at the Teatro alla Scala means something more than simply putting their technical and interpretive skills to the test: it means having an educational and professional experience of the highest level on a much dreamed-of stage.

La Scala Academy's Ballet School Show

A beautiful Indian fairy tale about love whose power transcends death. Legendary ballet star Natalia Makarova staged La Bayadère at the Bolshoi Theatre , following the finest examples from St. Petersburg. She meticulously recreated and refined the original choreographic version by the great Marius Petipa from 1877, while preserving his unparalleled choreography of the Kingdom of the Shades scene – one of the phenomenal aspects of classical ballet. She created her La Bayadère first for the American Ballet Theatre in New York and then performed it several times with the finest classical dance companies. This colorful, romantic spectacle captivates with its grandeur, is deeply moving, and leaves a lasting impression. It is full of soloistic displays and magnificent ensemble scenes. It is a perfect test of the academic artistry of any ballet company, including the Polish National Ballet and its leading soloists.

La Bayadère

Teatr Wielki - Polish National Opera

Who doesn't know him, the impoverished country gentleman tilting at windmills? Don Quixote, who suffers so much from reality that he escapes into the world of his beloved chivalric romances and loses himself in this dream world. Equipped with his imagination as armor, his chivalric ideals as weapons, and his faithful squire Sancho Panza at his side, Don Quixote embarks on unknown adventures. He fights against imaginary enemies and illusions, but at his core, always for his true ideals. He is constantly searching for his equally imagined great love, Dulcinea, an ideal he projects onto all women. He actually helps the young Kitri escape a forced marriage and marry her true love. He survives all his adventures unscathed—until, at the end of his journey, he encounters his own reflection and recognizes his self-deception.

Detmold Theatre

Paderhalle Paderborn

Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

The tribute from La Scala and its artists to Carla Fracci continues, as she remains a pivotal figure in the history of dance, a source of inspiration for generations of young people, not just in the world of ballet. Ballet director Frédéric Olivieri continues the tradition established in 2022 by Manuel Legris, celebrating dance and ballet in the name of this extraordinary star. Following the sell-out success of previous editions, there will be two performances in 2026, the year that marks both the fifth anniversary of Carla Fracci’s passing and the 90th anniversary of her birth. The vast and rich repertoire of her signature roles and the ballets she performed will be revived with international guests, the full La Scala Ballet Company – étoile, principal dancers, soloists, and artists of the Corps de Ballet – along with students from the School, the present and future of La Scala’s dance tradition.

MariusPetipa’schoreography takes the audience to legendary India to witness a love story between a temple dancer and a noble warrior. La Bayadère is an excellentexample of the classical ballet tradition, but the new Hungarian National Balett production will prove to be a real treat. The records of the original 1877 choreography are incomplete, the fourth act of the ballet is lost. AlbertMirzoyan attempts to reconstruct the missing parts to complete Petipa’schoreography of La Bayadère on stage of the Opera House.

Hungarian State Opera

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and whimsical world of "DON QUIXOTE," a classical ballet adaptation by Marina Villanueva, based on the choreography of Marius Petipa and the timeless literature of Miguel De Cervantes. This enchanting performance is set to take place from May 29th to June 7th, 2025, at the prestigious Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts, offering both matinee and evening shows at 2 P.M. and 8 P.M.

Set in 17th century Spain, "DON QUIXOTE" tells the story of a dreamer, a man in search of an ideal, living through the tales of chivalry. With his faithful squire, Sancho Panza, Don Quixote embarks on an adventure filled with humor and heart. He sees giants in windmills and princesses in gypsy women, bringing to life a narrative that is both comical and endearing. This three-act ballet, adapted from one of the most significant works in Spanish literature, remains true to the tradition of classical dance with its sumptuous costumes, rich set designs, flamboyant dances, and romantic pas de deux. It's a true explosion of colors and energy that promises to captivate audiences.

The production features the exquisite music of Ludwig Minkus, with choreography by Marina Villanueva, based on the original by Marius Petipa. The creative team includes Francesco Zito and Antonella Conte for sets, Francesco Zito for costumes, and Vinicio Cheli for lighting, ensuring a visual feast that complements the breathtaking performances by the dancers.

Under the artistic direction of Ivan Cavallari and with the support of the Les Grands Ballets Orchestra, comprising 43 musicians and soloists of the highest calibre, this production marks a highlight of the 2024-2025 season. "DON QUIXOTE" is not just a ballet; it's an experience of joy, color, and the enduring spirit of adventure.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this remarkable journey. Book your package now and save up to 40%, while enjoying exclusive benefits. Join us for a performance that celebrates the power of imagination and the beauty of classical ballet.

Place des Arts

Follow the spirited adventures of the idealistic Don Quixote and his loyal squire, Sancho Panza!

Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium

University of Alberta

Hollywood in the 1920s. A new, exotic and opulent film is being produced in the dream factory. The subject: La Bayadère - the story of the beautiful temple dancer, which was celebrated at its premiere in St. Petersburg in 1877, is to find its way onto the cinema screens of the world. Everyone is working with great enthusiasm to ensure the success of the project, which is believed to be certain. The aim is to help the tragically beautiful story, set in ancient India, achieve international brilliance in the cinemas of the 1920s.

Opernhaus Dortmund

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of classical ballet with Ballet San Antonio's captivating performance of "Don Quixote" at the prestigious Tobin Center. This enchanting production, choreographed by the renowned Patrick Armand, brings to life the adventures of Don Quixote with a Spanish flair that promises to transport audiences to the passionate heart of Spain. Experience the rhythm of castanets, the jingle of tambourines, and a colorful array of characters in this timeless tale of chivalry and dreams.

Join us for a journey filled with humor, love, and valor as Don Quixote embarks on a quest filled with imaginative exploits, battles with windmills, and an unwavering love for the beautiful Dulcinea. This classic ballet is celebrated for its vivid storytelling, lively characters, and the sheer joy it brings to audiences of all ages.

Performances are scheduled from October 18, 2024, through October 20, 2024, at the H-E-B Performance Hall, with tickets starting at $36.00. Showtimes include a 7:30 pm performance on October 18, matinee and evening performances on October 19 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm, respectively, and a final matinee at 2:00 pm on October 20. To ensure fair access to this must-see event, ticket purchases are limited to 10 per order. For groups exceeding this limit, please contact us for personalized assistance.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a spectacular production that celebrates the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of love, and the enduring power of imagination. Secure your tickets now for an unforgettable ballet experience with Ballet San Antonio's "Don Quixote" at the Tobin Center.

Ballet San Antonio Don Quixote

Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

A sparkling end to the ballet season: that is what the National Ballet Academy guarantees again this year, with its end-of-year production Dansers van Morgen.  Accompanied live by the Ballet Orchestra, all pupils and students of the school present themselves in an extremely diverse and energetic program. And especially because of the tenth anniversary of the Junior Company of the National Ballet, the program will be expanded this year with a festive and vibrant performance by this youth ensemble .

Dancers of Tomorrow 2024

National Opera & Ballet

Experience the enchantment of classical ballet with the North American premiere of Carlos Acosta's "Don Quixote," presented by The National Ballet of Canada. This captivating production takes the stage at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto, from June 1 to June 9, 2024. 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and sunny landscapes of Spain through the adventures of the whimsical knight Don Quixote and his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. As they embark on a quest for love, their journey leads them to the spirited Kitri, who is determined to marry her true love, Basilio, rather than the wealthy Gamache. With a blend of comedy, romance, and the pursuit of ideals, this ballet is a testament to the power of love and the spirit of adventure.

Carlos Acosta, one of the most celebrated dancers of his era, brings his signature role to life in this production. The ballet features a musical arrangement of Ludwig Minkus’ score by Hans Vercauteren, including original music for guitar, and showcases the incredible dancing and vibrant score that have become the hallmarks of "Don Quixote." The production boasts colorful sets and costumes by Tim Hatley, lighting by Peter Mumford, and video design by Nina Dunn, creating a visually stunning experience.

The choreography, inspired by Marius Petipa and staged by Christopher Saunders and Patricia Tierney, captures the essence of the original while infusing it with Acosta's unique vision. The ballet's running time is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, including intermissions, making for an unforgettable evening of classical dance.

Don't miss the opportunity to witness this joyous homage to Spain and the art of dance. Tickets are available now for this limited engagement. Join The National Ballet of Canada for a performance that celebrates the pleasure of classical dance and the timeless story of "Don Quixote."

Canadian Opera Company

Full of passion, anger, and struggle, the alluring music and human storytelling of Carmen is timeless. Reimagined over centuries through theater, film, opera and dance, the story revolves around a powerful but tragic female heroine. Jorma Elo’s version, set to the iconic score by Rodion Shchedrin after Georges Bizet, is a whirlwind of dance as technically ravaging as it is emotionally.

Carmen

Citizens Bank Opera House

Featuring the Pas de Deux, variations and coda from George Balanchine’s ballet Stars & Stripes inspired by John Philip Sousa’s patriotic music. The ballet is dedicated to the memory of Fiorello H. LaGuardia, mayor of New York City from 1934 to 1945 and founder of the City Center of Music and Drama.

Stars and Stripes Jubilee

Lesher Center for the Arts

A star-studded ensemble of dancers impacted by the war in Ukraine come together to perform new works and beloved classics at Festival Napa Valley’s annual Dance Gala. Led by Xander Parish, a former principal dancer at the Mariinsky Ballet, the evening features dancers who were previously part of Russia’s most elite dance companies, including the Bolshoi Ballet and Stanislavsky Ballet. Reunited in Dance is a testament to the resilience of dancers and the enduring power of ballet.

Dance Gala: Reunited in Dance

Festival Napa Valley Stage at Charles Krug

This powerful drama of classical ballet—one of the masterpieces of choreographer Marius Petipa, first premiered at the Bolshoi Theatre in St. Petersburg in 1877—continues to enchant audiences worldwide. Its story of the temple dancer, the bayadère Nikiya, set in ancient India, reflects the 19th-century fascination with distant lands and oriental motifs in dance as well as in other arts.

Theater of JK Tyl New Stage

A court ballet titled Don Quichotte was supposedly danced at the Louvre as early as 1614 (!). Overtime, themes from Cervantes’s work found a permanent place in ballet, leading to dozens of new stagings. None of them, however, was as sensational as Marius Petipa’s 1869 ballet, which continues to be staged to this day, refreshed and processed by successive generations of choreographers. Petipa commissioned Ludwig Minkus to write the melodic and vivacious music. The choreography was later revised by his student Alexandr Gorski, who added new dances to the great master’s work, making it even more impressive. Today, Petipa and Gorski are both recognised as the choreographers of the ballet. What is the secret of its enduring popularity across the world? The cheerful scenery of old-time Spain, the knight-errant of La Mancha, hilarious Sancho Panza, and clumsy Gamache never fail to charm the audience. In turn, the main characters, Kitri and Basilio, do not have a match in the classical repertoire when it comes to grace, vivaciousness, and dance virtuosity. It is an enthralling showcase of classical dance embellished with the Spanish style.

Brimming with joy, humor, and Spanish flair, Don Quixote is ballet’s ultimate romantic comedy. Inspired by Miguel de Cervantes’ beloved novel and brought to the stage through the choreography of Marius Petipa, this lively classic bursts with theatrical energy, cheeky characters, and dazzling dance. Light, playful, and full of heart, Don Quixote is a celebration of love and unforgettable fun.  

Phoenix Convention Center

Dynamic Spanish Spectacle! Seville's vibrant streets come to life in ballet's greatest comedic masterpiece. Follow the adventures of the spirited Kitri and her clever suitor Basilio as they navigate love and mischief, while the idealistic Don dreams of his perfect world. This must see tour de force revival features breathtaking performances with exciting classical dancing, hilarious, multi-faceted characters, and the athleticism of an all-male ensemble, whose electrifying flamenco segment is performed to nothing but the primal rhythm of stomping feet and clapping hands!

Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre

American choreographer Jodie Gates brings a new contemporary dance work Delicate Balance to the Almi Hall stage, created in collaboration with the youth company of Boston Ballet. Gates has created more than 70 works for ballet and contemporary dance companies, primarily in the United States. This is her first visit to the Finnish National Ballet.

Ludwig Minkus

Events

Upcoming events

23 - 29 Sep, 2026

La Bayadère · J.K. Tyl Theatre

4 - 20 Feb, 2027

Don Quixote · Polish National Opera

11 - 14 Feb, 2027

Don Quixote · Ballet Arizona

12 - 20 Feb, 2027

Don Quixote · Ballet West

25 - 27 Feb, 2027

Flight · Finnish National Opera and Ballet

Past events

2 - 16 Jul, 2026

Don Quixote · Teatro alla Scala

Apr 2, 2026

La Scala Academy's Ballet School Show · Teatro alla Scala

About

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