I created this book to share the magic of ballet with you in a fun and approachable way. Inside, you'll find stories behind the most beloved classical ballets and a ballet dictionary to help you understand all the essential terms. Whether you're a b...
The Don Quixote Ballet is based on the novel 'Don Quixote', written by Miguel de Cervantes in the 1600's. The ballet was composed by Austrian composer, Ludwig Minkus in 1869. The story unfolds over three acts.
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Act I
The Town Square The story opens in a lively village square in Spain, where Kitri, the innkeeper's daughter, is in love with the poor barber, Basilio. However, her father, Lorenzo, wants her to marry the wealthy but foolish nobleman, Gamache. Kitri rejects Gamache, and the villagers support her love for Basilio. Amid the festivities, Don Quixote, a nobleman driven by dreams of chivalry, arrives with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, searching for adventures. Don Quixote mistakes Kitri for his beloved Dulcinea (the lady of his dreams) and decides to protect her.
Kitri and Basilio Escape Kitri and Basilio, determined to avoid her arranged marriage, run away together, with Don Quixote believing he's on a quest to protect his "Dulcinea." Don Quixote, Sancho Panza, and others pursue the couple.
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Basilio and Kitri
Act II
Kitri and Basilio seek refuge in a gypsy camp. The gypsies welcome them with dances, but the pursuing villagers and Don Quixote soon arrive. The gypsies put on a puppet show for everyone's entertainment, featuring knights and dragons. Confused by the puppets, Don Quixote attacks them, believing they are real enemies.
Don Quixote's Dream After his attack, Don Quixote falls asleep and dreams of an enchanted forest. In his dream, he encounters dryads (forest nymphs) and the Queen of the Dryads, with Kitri appearing as his beloved Dulcinea.
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Don Quixote with Kitri as Dulcinea
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The Queen of the Dryads
Act III
Lorenzo and Gamache interrupt Don Quixote's dream. Sympathetic of the young lovers, Don Quixote attempts to lead Lorenzo and Gamache astray.
The Tavern Kitri and Basilio are eventually discovered in a tavern. To avoid being separated, Basilio pretends to die, asking Lorenzo to grant his dying wish for Kitri's hand in marriage. Lorenzo reluctantly agrees, and Basilio miraculously "recovers," leading to celebration.
The final scene takes place at the grand wedding of Kitri and Basilio. The villagers, Don Quixote, and Sancho Panza join in the joyous occasion. Don Quixote, satisfied with the outcome, bids farewell and rides off in search of new adventures.
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