Flamenco, Fantasy & Feathers | Don Quixote Dazzles Montreal with Les Grands Ballets
Don Quixote: Les Grands Ballets Light Up Montreal in Spanish Flair 💃
Spring’s cultural pulse beats stronger than ever as Don Quixote gallops into town. From May 29 to June 7, 2025, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens unveil the world premiere of their brand-new production of Don Quixote at Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts. Choreographed by Marina Villanueva, this vibrant new take honors Marius Petipa’s legacy while incorporating the passionate energy of Cuba’s national ballet. Get your tickets here.
🎭 A Visual and Musical Feast
Performed live by the Orchestre des Grands Ballets under the direction of Dina Gilbert, this Spanish reimagining of the classical ballet dazzles with scale and drama. Featuring 73 characters, over 120 Andalusian-inspired costumes, and four intricate sets designed by Francesco Zito and Antonella Conte, the production paints a theatrical and dreamlike version of Spain.
The original score by Ludwig Minkus is the emotional backbone of the performance. Seamlessly moving between comedy, romance, and lyrical drama, the music enhances every gesture and choreographic choice. It anchors the production in classic elegance with fiery Spanish flair.
🩰 Explosive Virtuosity
Villanueva’s choreography highlights the technical prowess of the dancers. Expect grand jetés, rapid pirouettes, and the iconic 32 fouettés by Kitri. Spanish soul shines through in the expressive arm work, emotive shoulder movements, and nods to folkloric dances like the seguidilla and flamenco.
The direction respects classical traditions while embracing modern expression, creating a blend of narrative ballet and contemporary gestures. This hybrid style caters to Montreal’s evolving audience, increasingly drawn to works that merge tradition with bold identity.
🎟️ A Dance for Everyone
This new Don Quixote goes beyond performance. On May 30 at 2 PM, an inclusive adaptation of Act I will be performed for 800 guests from community and healthcare sectors. With a sensory-friendly atmosphere, this initiative by the National Centre for Dance Therapy underscores cultural accessibility—a pillar of the Montreal Artistic landscape.
Also, the Ballet to Share program, supported by the FMSQ Foundation, Cogeco Fund, and Rossy Foundation, will allow nearly 300 caregivers and companions to attend the show free of charge
An Exceptional Orchestra 🎶
Les Grands Ballets’ orchestra, a 43-musician ensemble of high-level soloists, brings every note to life. For over 30 years, they’ve provided outstanding live music to accompany the company’s productions—fueling their rise to international acclaim.
📅 Practical Info
📍 Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, Place des Arts
📅 May 29 to June 7, 2025 – Shows at 2 PM and 8 PM
⏱️ Duration: 2 h 22 min including a 20-minute intermission
🎟️ Tickets: grandsballets.com | 514-849-0269
👶 40% off for ages 17 and under
🏙️ Les Grands Ballets at the Heart of Montreal Artistic
In a city as culturally rich as Montreal, institutions like Les Grands Ballets Canadiens shape the arts scene. Located in the Quartier des Spectacles, their programming is a blend of tradition and renewal—essential to the pulse of Montreal Artistique.
