If you have been holding your breath since 2005s Swan Lake, for three days in February you can sigh and swoon with relief. A rarely performed and acclaimed classical ballet is coming to Vancouver.
It was the dream of arts impresario David Lui two years ago to bring the a, and their fiery signature ballet, Don Quixote, to a city that has typically embraced contemporary dance. Upon his passing in September of last year, friend and business partner Brent Belsher carried on to see Luis vision completed.
Last week Belsher was in Victoria. He watched as Cuban dancers, some of the best in the world, discovered the city by bicycle, enjoying the sunshine after earning a standing ovation the night before.
All 75 members will be on stage at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»for the Canadian premier revealing why it is said that the Cubans own Don Quixote.
Belsher says he was drawn to the company by their excellence and the legend of choreographer and National Ballet of Cuba founder Alicia Alonso. Under her direction, the production effortlessly blends the drama of the 400-year-old classic with Russian showmanship and Latin passion.
Viengsay Valdés, the girl in the poster she does 75 fouettés without ever going off pointe. She just keeps going and going, and thats just her, admired Belsher.
Don Quixote runs Feb. 16-18. $47-$97 from Ticketmaster.Kelsey Klassen
