Overview
The thought of a night at the ballet has oft brought visions of upturned noses above spats and cocktails gowns; reserved for the enjoyment of the elite. If the Royal New Zealand Ballet's performance of Don Quixote is anything to go by though, this stereotype has become outdated and the reality of ballet could not be further from the truth. New Zealand choreographer Adrian Burnett has created a performance that is whimsical and light-hearted enough to be accessible to everyone, without sacrificing the grace and subtle beauty of the art form.
Principal dancers Kohei Iwamoto and Mayu Taniga as Basilio and Kitri displayed astonishing talent and discipline as they pirouetted and pas de deuced through the show. Their chemistry was palpable and they were a joy to watch. Characters such as the devious Gamache (Paul Mathews) with his hilarious shaggy dog brought humour and charm to the performance. Don Quixote danced by John Hull with his mop-horse was another favourite, having the crowd in stitches every time he galloped onstage, with his maladroit nephew Sancho (Shane Urton) wildly stumbling behind. The ensemble too, was sublime. Perfect formations and a complete commitment to character across the board created an infallible holistic performance.
The Wellington Orchestra, conducted by Nigel Gayno brought a special kind of magic to Don Quixote. Their tight musical performance drew the audience fully in to each setting that the story took them. From the beautifully passionate Spanish pas de deaux by lovers Basilio and Kitri, to the ethereal visit from cupid, each aspect of the journey was brought to life. Set and costume designer Gary Harris (The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty) ensured that each setting too helped draw the crowd into the story. His stunning design took the audience everywhere from a sunny café-filled plaza to a moonlight gypsy encampment, making every aspect of the performance all the more captivating.
What better way to start the winter than with a boisterous adventure through a summery Spain? The Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Don Quixote is a performance not to be missed.