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Bolshoi Ballet: Raymonda
Raymonda is betrothed to Jean de Brienne, a gallant knight who pledged to go on a crusade led by the King of Hungary. When her beloved leaves, Abderakhman, a foreign knight, makes a bid for the hand of Raymonda and threatens her fate when she rejects him…
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during the Crusades, Raymonda, a beautiful young noblewoman, is betrothed to the valiant knight Jean de Brienne. However, she finds herself the object of desire for the Saracen Emir Abdérachman, who attempts to abduct her. The ballet culminates in a dramatic confrontation and a triumphant celebration of love and chivalry.
Critical Reception
The 2019 Bolshoi Ballet production of Raymonda, choreographed by Alexei Ratmansky, was widely acclaimed for its faithful yet lively interpretation of Marius Petipa's original work. Reviewers praised the vibrant staging, the Bolshoi's exceptional corps de ballet, and the leading dancers' technical prowess and artistry, noting Ratmansky's successful efforts to restore and clarify Petipa's intentions. It was seen as a significant contribution to the classical ballet repertoire.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its faithful revival of Petipa's choreography, enhanced by Ratmansky's meticulous reconstruction.
Celebrated the Bolshoi dancers' impeccable technique and expressive performances, particularly the principals.
Commended for its visually stunning production design and the vibrant energy of the corps de ballet.
Google audience: Audience reception data is not readily available for this specific ballet production.
Fun Fact
Alexei Ratmansky's 2019 production of Raymonda for the Bolshoi Ballet was a meticulously researched reconstruction, aiming to restore the ballet to its original Petipa form, with significant input from historical ballet scores and notation.
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