Captivating Premiere | Les Grands Ballets Present ‘La Dame aux Camélias’
Buy your tickets here for the Captivating Premiere of ‘La Dame aux Camélias’
In the autumn of 2023, Les Grands Ballets takes center stage to unveil a world premiere performance of “La Dame aux Camélias” on October 19th. This much-anticipated presentation showcases the remarkable talents of Canadian choreographer Peter Quanz, commissioned by Ivan Cavallari. Known for his enchanting choreography in “Rodin / Claudel” over a decade ago, Quanz returns to craft his second full-length ballet for the company, setting the stage for an unforgettable artistic journey.
“La Dame aux Camélias” seamlessly blends neoclassical elegance with hints of modern romanticism, drawing inspiration from Alexandre Dumas fils’ famous novel. The ballet transports audiences into the tragic destiny of Marguerite Gautier, a courtesan with a tender heart navigating 19th-century Paris. Her fate takes an unexpected turn when she meets Armand Duval, a sincere young man. Their souls ignite in a passionate and ultimately tragic romance, defying the social conventions of their era.
This timeless story, rooted in a real-life affair, has been adapted across various art forms since its publication in 1848. In Quanz’s hands, the essence of the novel is distilled into a two-act ballet that unfolds through four scenes: Love, Sacrifice, Rhapsody, and Passing. These scenes showcase the remarkable dancing talent of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens.
To bring this contemporary adaptation to life, Quanz collaborates with esteemed Canadian designers. Michael Gianfrancesco creates a visually captivating stage, transporting the audience to 19th-century Paris. Marc Parent skillfully illuminates the production, enhancing the emotional depth of each scene. Costume designer Anne Armit adorns the dancers in period-appropriate attire.
The ballet’s musical score, curated in collaboration with German conductor Florian Ziemen, features compositions by Carl Maria von Weber and iconic female composers. The Les Grands Ballets Orchestra masterfully brings this exquisite music to life.
“La Dame aux Camélias” explores enduring themes of love, sacrifice, passion, and human connection. As Marguerite and Armand’s love story unfolds, the audience experiences the highs of love’s rhapsody and the depths of its sacrifice. Quanz’s choreography captures the nuances of their relationship.
This production is a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries. As the final curtain falls, the audience is left with a profound appreciation for the power of dance, music, and storytelling. “La Dame aux Camélias” pays homage to a timeless classic while breathing new life into it, making it relevant for contemporary audiences. Les Grands Ballets Canadiens has delivered a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
A MUST-SEE EVENT
When? October 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 2023, at 8:00 PM, and October 28 at 2:00 PM
Where? Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts
With who? Les Grands Ballets Orchestra conducted by Dina Gilbert
ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE
Act I: 63 minutes
Intermission: 20 minutes
Act II: 43 minutes
Artistic Direction of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens: Ivan Cavallari
Choreography: Peter Quanz
Set Design: Michael Gianfrancesco
Costumes: Anne Armit
Lighting: Marc Parent
Music: Lili Boulanger, D’un soir Triste, D’un matin de printemps; Louise Farrenc, Symphony No. 1 in C
Minor, Opus 32: II. Adagio Cantabile; Carl Maria Von Weber, Aufforderung Zum Tanz, Rondo Brilliant,
Opus 65, 6 Favouritwaltzer: No. 1-6, J. 143, Polonaise Brillante, Opus 72, Die Drie Pintos – Entre’acte; Fanny
Mendelssohn, Notturno in G Minor; Kaija Saariaho, Ciel D’hiver; Clara Schumann, Romance in A Minor.
Selection, Compilation, and Arrangements: Florian Ziemen
Conductor: Dina Gilbert
AT THE HEART OF THE EXPERIENCE
As part of the Journées de la culture, on Saturday, September 30, 2023, Peter Quanz will exclusively present selected excerpts from his creation Studio-Théâtre des Grands Ballets, 1435 De Bleury Street in Montreal. From 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. First come, first served. Free entry
SCHOOL MATINEE
Friday, October 27, 2023, from 1:15 PM to 2:30 PM. Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts. Price: $25 / students
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