Rudolf Nureyev's Don Quixote is an enchanting ballet masterpiece from 2016, performed by opera singers, musicians, and dancers of the Vienna State Opera. The ballet is based on the novel of the same name by Miguel de Cervantes and tells a story of love, adventure, and chivalry set in the Spain of the 16th century. The choreography was developed by Nureyev himself, and has been brought back to life at the Vienna State Opera under the direction of Manuel Legris. In the lead roles, Maria Yakovleva (Kitri) and Denys Cherevychko (Basilio) showcase their breathtaking talent, impeccable technique, and passionate interpretation.
The ballet opens with the bustling market square of Barcelona, where young Kitri and her lover Basilio are trying to escape the disapproving gaze of Kitri's father, innkeeper Lorenzo. The scene is overflowing with energy and color, as street dancers, merchants, and toreadors mingle with the lovers and the snooping townsfolk. The vibrant music by Ludwig Minkus is executed with gusto by the orchestra, transporting the audience into the heart of Spanish culture.
As the story unfolds, we witness Don Quixote, an aging and delusional nobleman, mistaking Kitri for his idealized lady Dulcinea. The Quixote character is played with great charisma by Eno Peci, who delivers his comical lines and exaggerated gestures with aplomb. His faithful squire Sancho Panza (Davide Dato) is equally entertaining, with his cheerful antics and loyal support of his master's whims.
Don Quixote's unwavering quest for chivalrous deeds leads him and Sancho to various adventures, including a showdown with a band of gypsies, a mock tournament where Kitri and Basilio pretend to be aristocrats, and a dreamlike vision where Kitri appears as the Queen of the Dryads. Each scene is a feast for the eyes and ears, with lavish costumes, opulent sets, and spectacular choreography that showcases the talents of the entire cast.
Yakovleva and Cherevychko shine in their pas de deux, displaying incredible strength, grace, and chemistry that elicit gasps and cheers from the audience. Their duet in the final act, with Basilio pretending to die and Kitri swooning over him before he miraculously rises to propose to her, is a classic moment of romance and joy that never fails to move audiences.
Other standout performances include Roman Lazik as the toreador Espada, who commands attention with his muscular physique and flamboyant moves, and Olga Esina as the vivacious Cupid, whose playful antics add a touch of whimsy to the proceedings. The corps de ballet also deserves praise for their precision and coordination, particularly in the frenetic tavern scene where they dance and sing with infectious energy.
The overall mood of the ballet is one of exuberance and optimism, celebrating the power of love, imagination, and art to conquer all obstacles. Despite the tragicomic nature of the characters' dilemmas, the audience is left with a sense of uplift and joy, thanks to Nureyev's masterful choreography, Minkus's infectious music, and the outstanding performances of the Vienna State Opera.
In conclusion, Rudolf Nureyev's Don Quixote is a must-see ballet for lovers of dance, music, and theatrical spectacle. Its timeless story, memorable characters, and dazzling visuals will leave you with a smile on your face and a song in your heart, long after the curtain falls.
Rudolf Nureyev's Don Quixote is a 2017 musical with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes.
