Review: Don Quixote, Sadler’s Wells

Set in the sizzling Spanish sun, Don Quixote tells the story of a noble man, the eponymous Don Quixote (Rory Mackay), who, in his delusions, is seeking an adventure and becomes something of a hero. On his travels he meets Kitri (Momoko Hirata) and Basilio (Mathias Dingman), a young couple who wish to be together in love, despite her father’s wishes.

Carlos Acosta’s version of this classic was first performed by the Royal Ballet Company in 2013, where he starred opposite principal dancer Marianela Núñez. This is now a joyous and exciting re-staging of that production at Sadler’s Wells. With satire at its heart, the story is accessible to all, including ballet newcomers and children, something that is wonderfully refreshing.

The Birmingham Royal Ballet are brilliantly led by Hirata and Dingman. The pair are a long standing partnership in these roles, and it is clear to see why. Their poise and control is mesmerising, culminating in an impressive act three coda, chock full with fouettés and pirouettes. Hirata’s Kitri is less feisty and more playful than often the case, which brings an endearing quality to the character, creating a lovely, fully rounded performance. This, paired with Dingman’s tenacious Basilio, makes for a perfect blend of romance that revels in the summer heat.

A star turn comes in act two from Tzu-Chao Chou as Amour. A role traditionally danced by a female, Chou brings beaming joy and wonderful extensions to the character. It’s a fun gender swap that should definitely become a main stay of the piece. The company are enthusiastic and engaging, building the world that the action takes place in and keeping it alive wonderfully. The company truly shine in these classical reworkings, bringing new life to older pieces.

The whole production feels vibrant and full of energy, with set and costume by Tim Hatley creating a beautiful Mediterranean scene across the stage of Sadler’s Wells. He beautifully captures the changes in mood between settings. The town square is light and joyful, with Kitri’s iconic red dress gleaming under the light. This contrasts with the gypsy encampment which is dark, shrouded in fire and smoke, and the dreamy dryad landscape, bathed in ethereal light, with the corps de ballet clad in beautifully white tutus.

Birmingham Royal Ballet are, as ever, wonderfully accompanied by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, conducted by Paul Murphy. Music is also interwoven into the performance with Tom Ellis and Alexander Crawford playing the guitar live onstage during the second act.

Acosta’s Don Quixote is a joyous ballet for veteran fans and newcomers alike. Excellent choreography paired with an accessible story will make you spend your evening longing for a glimpse of the Spanish sun.

Choreography: Carlos Acosta after Marius Petipa
Production: Carlos Acosta
Set and Costume design: Tim Hatley
Lighting: Peter Mumford
Video Design: Nina Dunn
Staging: Christopher Saunders
Music: Ludwig Minkus
Arrangement (2022) and additional original music: Hans Vercauteren

Don Quixote plays at Sadler’s Wells until Saturday 25 April.