Don Quixote Takes Audience On Vivacious

Richmond Ballet presents one of the most exhilarating comedic ballets of all time, Don Quixote. Well-known for its juicy Spanish folk dancing, bravura technical moves and saucy comedic romance, Don Quixote promises to entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds (from February 9 to February 11).

"It's romantic, fun and flashy," explains Richmond Ballet Artistic Director Stoner Winslett, "It's bravura-dancing at its best "¦ this is perfect ballet for Valentines Day."

The errant knight, Don Quixote, along with his sidekick Sancho Panza, set out for adventure, and encounters the lovers Basil and Kitri as well as rowdy gypsies, dashing toreadors, and fantastic characters from Don Quixote's imagination. With over three dozen dancers and 50 Richmond Symphony musicians performing the rollicking Minkus score, Don Quixote is sure to take audiences on a vivacious Spanish romp.

First choreographed by Marius Petipa and Alexsandr Gorsky in 1869, this version of Don Quixote explores the lighter chapters of Miguel de Cervantes' 15th Century ground breaking novel. Richmond Ballet first performed this classical show-stopper to much critical acclaim in 1985, and again in 1989.

World-renowned choreographer and ballet master Nicolas Beriozoff staged Don Quixote for Richmond Ballet in 1985, and again 4 years later in 1989 at the age of 83. Since deceased, Beriozoff was, at that time, one of the few direct links to the father of the Golden Age of ballet, Marius Petipa. Following tradition, Mr. Beriozoff passed the steps along to Richmond Ballet for safe keeping. The lavish sets and costumes are from the National Ballet of Canada, and were designed by the legendary set designer Desmond Healy.

Because of the generosity of our sponsors, Virginians have the opportunity to enjoy ballet classics such as Don Quixote. Richmond Ballet thanks SunTrust and Hunton & Williams for sponsoring Richmond Ballet's production of Don Quixote. -- www.richmondballet.com