Don Quijote

With “Don Quijote” , Marius Petipa created one of the most colourful ballets in the classical repertoire. Loosely based on episodes from Miguel de Cervantes’ novel, the ballet does not recount the entire story of the knight of the sad countenance, but focuses on a lively love story: the innkeeper’s daughter Kitri and the barber Basilio fight for their happiness with wit and verve, accompanied by Don Quijote and his faithful Sancho Panza.

Petipa’s choreography, which premiered in 1869, epitomises the golden age of ballet. Grand ensemble numbers, technically demanding solos and iconic pas de deux have made “Don Quijote” a firm favourite with audiences to this day. In Marcelo Gomes’ newly revised version for the Ballett am Rhein, this core essence is preserved. Focusing on the characters, their emotional expression and their relationships with one another, he presents a dazzling display of ballet virtuosity based on Petipa’s version, with a fresh perspective for today’s audience.