Carlos Acosta’s revival of his Don Quixote production was dazzling and snappy on its opening night at the Lowry.
Birmingham Royal Ballet’s ‘Don Quixote’ showcases the classic tale of the nobleman Don Quixote, who becomes enthralled in reading books about the adventures of knights and the ladies they court. The nobleman becomes delusional and believes he himself is one of these knights, even imagining a lady by the name of Dulcinea who appears in the prologue. The image of Dulcinea is one of the most striking of the entire performance, with the dancer evading Don elegantly while veiled in a sheer, liquid-like fabric that reflects the haunting blue lighting. This prologue sets the story perfectly for the performance, encapsulating the dreamlike state in which the nobleman exists.
Through Don Quixote’s delusions, we are introduced to Kitri, a beautiful woman who is in love with Basilio, a barber who is also in love with Kitri. The pair’s chemistry is captivating through the choreography and standout performances from Beatrice Parma and Enrique Bejarano Vidal, making the comedy aspect of the romantic story even more satisfying. Don, through his fantasy as a knight, comes across Kitri and Basilio while searching for Dulcinea, observing the pair as they run away due to the contempt of Kitri’s father, who wishes for her to marry a rich nobleman named Gamache.
The first act is stacked with energetic performances, with the use of cracking fans and maracas adding a snappiness to the elegance of the ballet. The music is shaped well around the choreography, keeping attention on the dancers and holding the tension of the story well. Beats are satisfying with the use of constantly flowing frocks, fabrics and fans that mimic a butterfly’s wings, the show is undeniably mesmerising with an edgy tone.
The set design is simplistic but impactful, with the garden of dryads scene in Act II being particularly beautiful. Streams of glittering Ivy drop from the ceiling against a golden hue as dancers perform spectacularly in bejewelled frocks. Below them, smoke pours down from the stage and creates a trance state with almost floating figures. Riku Ito’s performance in this scene is stellar, with confident movement that draws the eye.
Other sets include a market square, which feels exactly as imagined, with a realism that feels detailed. Costuming is likewise, feeling period accurate as well as culturally accurate.
Don Quixote is a spectacular celebration of love and nobleness, with a whimsy and flair that is communicated perfectly by the cast in their flamboyant choreography. It is a perfect introduction to the art of ballet, and could definitely be enjoyed by the more accustomed.
