A brilliant blue sky in Seattle was no match for Alexei Ratmansky's new interpretation of the classical ballet last Friday. Breathtaking scenery, vibrant costumes and lively choreography brought the story from Cervantes' famous novel, Don Quixote de la Mancha, to life. Kitri and Basilio, played by Carla Körbes and Karel Cruz, dance with carefree bravado, and film and TV star Tom Skerritt provides a truly memorable Don Q in this lovely story set in Barcelona, Spain.
The performance is all about dance and it is done with an energetic and relentless spirit. From the defiance of Kiri toward her father's insistence to marry a wealthy suitor instead of Basilio, the spectacular second act of the wood nymphs and cherubs of Don Q's blissful dreams (the scenery will take your breath away), to the finale filled with memorable solo performances that give each dancer their opportunity to shine. This is a memorable show which will have you believe that love truly conquers all.
“Don Quixote” runs through Sunday, February 12 at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer Street, Seattle; (206) 441-2424, pnb.org.
