Shakespeare's work is frequently seen on area stages, but the Bard's most famous work is getting the ballet treatment this weekend.
The Minnesota Ballet production of Romeo and Juliet (music written by Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev) opens April 10th at the Depot Theater. For Artistic Director Karl von Rabenau, Romeo and Juliet stands above all other Shakespeare ballets.
"It is unique. There have been a number of Shakespeare plays that have been set to ballet... but Romeo and Juliet... has quickly risen to the heights of a Swan Lake."
von Rabenau focuses on the virtuosity in dancing and acting for dancers. While it's a heavy lift, the music makes directing easier by providing undeniable cues.
"The music really helps us a lot in how we tell the story."
The Ballet is keeping their depiction of the play more traditional for their first performance of the piece. Sets built by local company Brown Nose Design, are "regal but not quite renaissance."
Romeo and Juliet is showing at the Depot Theater April 10-13. The Thursday, Friday, and Saturday shows start at 7:00pm, while the Sunday show starts at 3:00pm. You can get tickets online or by calling the box office at 218-733-7570. University and high school students can rush tickets for $15 dollars. Additionally, people can participate in a scavenger hunt for a pair of free tickets. Check out the Minnesota Ballet social media to learn more.
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