LA BAYADÈRE

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Join Hong Kong Ballet (HKB) in a thrilling conclusion to its dynamic 2022/23 Season at the Asian premiere of La Bayadère, an iconic 19th century Russian ballet by world-renowned choreographer Vladimir Malakhov, during 2 – 4 June. This opulent production features three international ballet superstars and is filled with passion, opium, snakes and ghosts amidst a complicated love triangle.

Set in the jungles of ancient India, La Bayadère recounts the ill-fated love of temple dancer (bayadère) Nikiya and her noble warrior Solor, who is betrothed to another woman. This enduring tale of palace intrigue, vengeance and redemption is considered one of the best-loved classical ballets of all time. With Malakhov’s lavish staging after Marius Petipa, Ludwig Minkus’ majestic music and Jordi Roig’s opulent sets and costumes, La Bayadère evokes an immersive exotic world in which colour and beauty abound. Highlights include the Golden Idol’s spectacular virtuoso solo and the renowned Kingdom of the Shades scene—the first perfect ‘ballet blanc’ with the pristine corps de ballet moving in perfect synchronicity under a moonlit sky.

Malakhov visited Hong Kong to work with HKB, he reflects, ‘It is an honour to re-stage La Bayadère for Hong Kong Ballet. The reason why this ballet is a classic is not only because of its music and ravishing dancing but also because of its romantic theme—’dying for love.’ Nikiya dies for her lover and believes that she will meet him again under the moonlight. It is wonderful and interprets the meaning of life well.’ In his version, Malakhov has added more roles for male dancers to showcase their impressive technical skills and athleticism.

Audiences will also be dazzled by charismatic international superstars Marianela Núñez and Vadim Muntagirov, Principal Dancers at The Royal Ballet, and Iana Salenko, Principal Dancer at Berlin State Ballet, with their flawless technique, extraordinary acting skills and irresistible glamour!

Suitable for ages 6 and above.

CHOREOGRAPHY Vladimir Malakhov after Petipa MUSIC Ludwig Minkus
SET & COSTUME DESIGN Jordi Roig
LIVE ACCOMPANIMENT Hong Kong Sinfonietta

02–04 JUN 2023
FRI 7:30pm
SAT–SUN 2:30pm & 7:30pm