Taking a tilt at an old favorite
American Ballet Theatre, one of the most prestigious dance companies in the world, brings ‘Don Quixote’ to Norfolk in 2022
The American Ballet Theatre is coming to Norfolk next year, performing “Don Quixote” for the opening weekend of the Virginia Arts Festival’s 25th season. American Ballet Theatre, one of the most prestigious dance companies in the world, will have three performances March 25 through 27 and will be accompanied by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Tickets went on sale Wednesday starting at $25.
The ballet is based on the 1605 novel by Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes, chronicling the adventures of Alonso Quixano — also known as Don Quixote — and his loyal squire Sancho Panza.
“Don Quixote lights up the stage with virtuoso dancing, unforgettable music, and visually stunning stage magic,” said Virginia Arts Festival Perry Artistic Director Robert W. Cross in a news release. “I can’t think of a more spectacular way to celebrate the Festival’s 25th Anniversary than this great ballet classic.”
The novel inspired the 1965 Broadway musical “Man of La Mancha” and the 1972 film of the same name directed by Arthur Hiller starring Peter O’Toole and Sophia Loren. It was also referenced in the 2018 limited Netflix series “Maniac.”
The ABT’s “Don Quixote” made its debut in 1995. It features costumes and sets by Tony Award-winning designer Santo Loquasto. Tony Award winner Natasha Katz is in charge of the performance’s lighting. New York Times dance critic Gia Kourlas praised the show.
“With its myriad acrobatic feats — one-arm lifts! dizzying fouetté turns! — Don Quixote could trade its setting from a theater to a circus tent without skipping a beat.”