Colorado Ballet presents Don Quixote
Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver
October 4–13, 2019
Colorado Ballet is pleased to open its 2019-20 season with Don Quixote. Based on the classic novel, The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha, the ballet Don Quixote premiered in Moscow, Russia in 1869 and remains one of today’s most frequently performed works with original classical choreography by Marius Petipa and music by Ludwig Minkus.
This charming adaptation is suitable for children and families. The spirited characters, vibrant costumes and sets from American Ballet Theatre, a touch of romantic comedy, and impressive dancing will delight and inspire audiences of all ages.
SYNOPSIS: The ballet begins as Don Quixote sets out on a quest to find his true love with his trusty squire, Sancho Panza. In a Seville marketplace, Don Quixote meets the elegant yet feisty Kitri, who he believes could be the woman of his dreams. Don Quixote and Sancho Panza’s adventure continues through a friendly gypsy camp, where Don Quixote dreams of beautiful maidens and Dryads. Don Quixote then realizes that Kitri actually belongs with Basilio, though Kitri’s father does not approve. Through twists and turns in the plot, the lovers eventually unite and a wedding celebration ensues.
I hadn't read the book since high school and really didn't recall much of the story. However, it is not necessary to be familiar with the story in order to enjoy this ballet. Through great choreography, gestures, and facial expressions, the dancers do an exceptional job communicating with each other and with the audience. Plus, the Ellie is one of only three opera houses in the U.S. with seatback titling, which periodically provides brief explanations of what's happening.
This adaptation was remarkably family-friendly with a lot of humor, especially in Act I. Act II, featuring gypsies and forest fairies, is so dreamy and ethereal. Act III absolutely took my breath away, with choreography designed to showcase the talent of the dancers, especially the parts of Kitri and Basilio.
With a performance time of more than two hours and two 20-minute intermissions, this ballet might be a little long for very young children or first-timers. The time passed quickly for me. From the sets to the costumes to the use of tambourines on stage, it is a fun and engaging ballet.
Tickets start at $30. Get yours early for the best availability, and experience an evening of fun for all ages. To purchase, visit www.coloradoballet.org or call (303) 837-8888 ext. 2.
PERFORMANCE DATES AND TIMES
- Friday, October 4, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 2 p.m.
- Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, October 6, 2019 at 2 p.m.
- Thursday, October 10, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 2 p.m.
- Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, October 13, 2019 at 2 p.m.
COLORADO BALLET UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS
- The Nutcracker: November 30–December 29, 2019
- Peter Pan: January 31–February 9, 2020
- Tour de Force Featuring Feast of the Gods, Celts, and a World Premiere: March 6–8, 2020
- Ballet MasterWorks Featuring Theme & Variations, Petite Mort, and In the Upper Room: April 3–12, 2020
ABOUT COLORADO BALLET
Presenting exceptional classical ballet and innovative contemporary dance through performances, training, education, and community engagement, Colorado Ballet continues to inspire and grow an increasingly diverse audience base in Denver, Colorado. Established in 1961 by Lillian Covillo and Freidann Parker, Colorado Ballet is a non-profit organization celebrating 59 years of excellence. As a world-class professional company, Colorado Ballet presents 55 performances annually to sold-out audiences in the 2,000 seat Ellie Caulkins Opera House. The Company’s 32 professional dancers and 21 studio company dancers come from all over the world. Colorado Ballet’s Education and Community Engagement programming serves under-resourced students, teachers, families, people with disabilities, and lifelong learners, reaching more than 35,000 contacts in 300 schools and organizations annually.
