La Bayadere - Ballet
Be transported to the opulent world of ancient India with La Bayadère, a ballet that tells an epic story of love, jealousy, and ultimate forgiveness.
This mesmerizing production follows Nikiya, a temple dancer whose forbidden love for the noble warrior Solor ignites a web of betrayal. As passions clash, the jealous High Brahmin and the vengeful princess Gamzatti conspire to tear them apart, leading to heartbreak, tragedy, and otherworldly redemption. The iconic "Kingdom of the Shades" scene — celebrated as one of the most breathtaking moments in ballet history — offers a glimpse into a transcendent realm where love and sacrifice endure beyond earthly boundaries.
This breathtaking production stars the principal dancers of the Royal Ballet, Vadim Muntagirov and Fumi Kaneko, whose artistry and grace bring unparalleled depth to the lead roles. With stunning choreography, lavish costumes, and a stirring live score performed by the National Theatre Brno orchestra, La Bayadère is a feast for the senses and the soul.
Why You Can’t Miss It
Marvel at the iconic "Kingdom of the Shades" scene, a pinnacle of ballet artistry.
Enjoy a lavish production with breathtaking choreography and opulent design.
Experience the magic of live music by a world-class orchestra, bringing every moment to life.
Don’t miss this unforgettable experience — secure your seats today.
Photo Gallery
The Rite of Fire
The fakirs are preparing for the Rite of Fire in the sacred forest. Solor, a wealthy hunter and warrior, has just returned from a successful tiger hunt. The Chief Fakir draws his attention to the beautiful bayadere, a temple dancer, Nikiya. The priests arrive, led by the High Brahmin. Gamzatti, the Rajah’s daughter, who is also present at the celebration, is captivated by Solor. The High Brahmin asks Nikiya to dance. Both he and Solor are overwhelmed by Nikiya’s beauty. The High Brahmin cannot suppress his desire to declare his love for Nikiya, however he is rejected by her. The Chief Fakir arranges a meeting between Solor and Nikiya. At first, she resists Solor’s advances, but finally submits to him. In front of the sacred fire, Solor vows to be faithful to The Rajah’s Palace
The omnipotent Rajah is organising a wedding for his daughter Gamzatti. He bids her to choose a husband from among several rich nobles, one of whom is Solor and she chooses him. The Rajah tells Solor that it is his will and his daughter’s wish that Solor marries Gamzatti. Solor is horrified, for he has sworn eternal love to Nikiya! However defying the Rajah would mean certain death. The High Brahmin comes to the palace and tells the Rajah the truth about Solor’s relationship with Nikiya. The Rajah decides to kill Nikiya, for nothing will stand in the way of his daughter’s happiness. The High Brahmin has a premonition of misfortune: the Gods are certain to punish the slaying of a bayadere… Gamzatti sends for Nikiya, demanding her to dance at her forthcoming engagement festivities. Nikiya defends her own love for Solor and not even Gamzatti’s offer of jewels can persuade her to give up Solor. In desperation she attempts to attack Gamzatti with a dagger. At the last moment a servant intervenes and prevents the worst from happening. Gamzatti vows to destroy Nikiya.
Gamzatti and Solor’s Betrothal Celebrations
The despondent Nikiya is forced to dance at the magnificent betrothal celebrations that are being held in honour of Gamzatti and Solor. The Rajah sends for a basket of flowers which is then presented to Nikiya. A poisonous snake, which is hidden in the basket, bites her fatally. The High Brahmin tries to persuade her to take an antidote to the poison but the sight of the betrothed couple makes her refuse it and she dies.
Solor’s Sorrow
After Nikiya’s death, Solor can find no peace of mind. He seeks consolation in opium and he is constantly haunted by visions of Nikiya’s shadow. Gamzatti once more attempts to gain Solor’s love, but he rejects her. Gamzatti is determined to marry him despite his resistance.
The Kingdom of the Shades
In an opium dream, Solor is transported to the Kingdom of the Shades and there he is reunited with the shadow of his beloved Nikiya.
The Wedding Preparations
The dream ends. The Rajah and Gamzatti arrive and insist that the wedding take place immediately.
The Wrath of the Gods
The dance of the Bronze Idol is believed to bring happiness to the betrothed couple. At the moment when Solor and Gamzatti are saying their vows, the Gods take their revenge. A storm and an earthquake destroy the temple and all those responsible for Nikiya’s death die in the rubble.
Epilogue
Solor’s spirit follows Nikiya’s shadow to the Heaven.
LUDWIG MINKUS / JOHN LANCHBERY
LA BAYADÈRE
Classical ballet in two acts
Music: Ludwig Minkus
Musical arrangement: John Lanchbery
Conductor: Robert Kružík
Libretto: Sergej Chuděkov, Marius Petipa, Jaroslav Slavický
Choreography and Stage Direction: Jaroslav Slavický (after the original choreography by M. Petipa)
Set Designer: Marek Hollý
Costume Designer: Josef Jelínek
Ballet Masters: Jana Přibylová, Ivan Příkaský, Jana Ruggieri
Stage Manager: Luděk Mrkos
Cast
14. 2. evening
Solor – Vadim Muntagirov
Nikia – Fumi Kaneko
Gamzatti – An Se Hyun
Brahmin – Ilia Mironov
The Rajah – Ivan Příkaský
15. 2. afternoon
Solor – Adrian Sanchez
Nikia – Chanell Cabrera
Gamzatti – Andrea Smejkalová
Brahmin – Ilia Mironov
The Rajah – Ivan Příkaský
15. 2. evening
Solor – Alejandro Virelles
Nikia – Ksenia Ovsyanick
Gamzatti – An Se Hyun
Brahmin – Ilia Mironov
The Rajah – Ivan Příkaský
16. 2. afternoon
Solor – Adrian Sanchez
Nikia – Chanell Cabrera
Gamzatti – Andrea Smejkalová
Brahmin – Ilia Mironov
The Rajah – Ivan Příkaský
16. 2. evening
Solor – Vadim Muntagirov
Nikia – Fumi Kaneko
Gamzatti – An Se Hyun
Brahmin – Ilia Mironov
The Rajah – Ivan Příkaský
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes including intermission
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Below 6+ years are not permitted into the Dubai Opera Main Auditorium.
