April 27–28, 2024 @ Wellmont Performing Arts Center
Kingsport Ballet stages the full length ballet "Don Quixote," April 27at 7 p.m. and 28, at 2:30 p.m.at the Ballad Health Performing Arts Center. The production is under the direction of Leonid Flegmatov, Artistic Director of Kingsport Ballet.
The somewhat comic ballet will feature guest professionals from Philadelphia Ballet, which is under the direction of Angel Corella. Oksana Maslova, principal dancer with the company, has performed with Kingsport Ballet on various occasions, including the lead role in "Swan Lake" and last year’s production of "Don Quixote." Her partner, Yuval Cohen, trained at the Vaganova School and the Bolshoi Ballet. In 2023 he received a bronze medal at the International Ballet Competition in Mississippi.
The ballet is known for its lively, contagious music. The story line is loosely based on episodes taken from the famous novel "Don Quixote de la Mancha" by Miguel de Cervantes, thought to be one of the best novels of all time. It was originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and features vibrant costumes and stagings, highlighted by memorable character performances and virtuoso dancing.
“We are so excited to get to perform this ballet once again this April,” said Executive Director BertinaDew. “'Don Quixote' is one of those exciting ballets that new and repeat audiences are typically left wanting more.”
Artistic Director, Leonid Flegmatov, said “We have new and returning cast members as well as some exciting added scenes. We hope to have a great turnout at the theater because we love what we do and want everyone to enjoy it with us.”
The ballet takes audiences from vibrant dances on a street in old Spain, to a gypsy camp in the countryside, and to the depths of a dream, whereby the chivalrous and confused Don Quixote imagines beautiful dancing dryads and tiny cupids. The story follows Don Quixote in his quest for good versus evil, and his search for the lovely woman of his dreams, Dulcinea. “Beautiful, with a touch of humor and plenty of flair.”
Tickets may be purchased in advance through www.kingsportballet.orgor by calling 423-378-3967. All seats are reserved. Special college student pricing and free educational materials for teachers and homeschool families. For high school student discounts when attending as part of an English or Spanish class, call 423-378-3967. A livestream option for school groups canbe made available for streaming the Monday and Tuesday immediately following the production.
Category: Dance