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Ballet Nacional de Cuba To Perform "Don Quixote"

Alexa Velasquez |
June 15, 2011 | 10:26 p.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

Dany Hernández
Dany Hernández

At the end of this month, Los Angeles will host one of professional ballet’s most prominent companies: the Ballet Nacional de Cuba, which will perform the classic Don Quixote at the Dorothy Chandler Pavillion June 23-26.

Formed in 1948, the company has earned highly prestigious reputation in international ballet, having produced some of the most lauded and technically-gifted dancers internationally.

“After so many years and so much hard work, it is the most rewarding feeling to know that the company is appreciated at such a high level,” said principal dancer Dani Hernández.

Alicia Alonso is the founder, artistic director and primary choreographer for Ballet Nacional de Cuba, and her unique and flavorful choreographic renditions of ballet classics have gained international recognition and are danced by companies around the world, including Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris (Giselle, Grand Pas de Quatre, The Sleeping Beauty); Vienna Opera and Naples San Carlo Ballet Theatre (Giselle); Prague Opera (La Fille Mal Gardée); Teatro alla Scala (The Sleeping Beauty) and the Royal Danish Ballet (Don Quixote).

Alonso first premiered this version of Don Quixote in 1988. Combining magnificent technique with strong Latin influences, this particular rendition of Don Quixote has been acclaimed by critics and the public worldwide, due to the dignified treatment given to the ballet’s titular character: Don Quixote de La Mancha.

“This version is more fun, more free,” Hernández said. “However, there is still much emphasis on technique and artistry.”

The company has created more than 600 works and performed in more than 60 countries worldwide, consistently receiving distinctions and awards in competitions and international festivals.

 

Don Quixote Ballet
Don Quixote Ballet

 

Ballet Nacional de Cuba will also be performing a program of classical repertory at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County, June 15-19, 2011.

“The best feeling is hearing the applause after the final act,” Hernández  said. “Seeing the fruit of all your efforts and ultimately knowing that the audience is taking away a little piece of Cuba with them.”

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