Five Reasons Why Roméo et Juliette is a Must-See
Jean-Christophe Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette is a beautiful retelling of the classic story. The power of the Shakespeare play is only made more poignant through the power of dance and live music, as young love blooms, grows, and overwhelms before your eyes. Keep reading to learn why this ballet is a must-see.
1. The Character-Driven Narrative
In Jean-Christophe Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette, see the story through Friar Laurence’s eyes. This smart adaptation immerses you in the characters’ powerful emotions and relationships. Experience the full depth and breadth of desire and despair with Romeo, Juliet, and more.
2. Cinematic Choreography
Jean-Christophe Maillot blends contemporary and classic movement in Roméo et Juliette, creating bold choreography that enhances the story. From a dramatic slow-motion battle to Romeo and Juliet’s intimate intertwining of limbs, this ballet is full of unforgettable moments.
3. The Dramatic Score
Called “the most ambitious of Prokofiev’s non-operatic scores,” (LA Philharmonic), Sergei Prokofiev’s work in Romeo and Juliet is powerful. Moving lyricism, played perfectly by the PNB Orchestra, complements the drama you see onstage.
4. Award-Worthy Performances
PNB Company dancers deliver some of their most passionate performances in Roméo et Juliette. This ballet pushes them, not just physically, but emotionally, as they fully embody the characters. Carla Körbes, James Yoichi Moore, Noelani Pantastico, Miles Pertl, Lucien Postlewaite, Ezra Thomson, and so many others have wowed audiences with their remarkable performances in this ballet. We can’t wait to see who makes their mark next.
5. Stunning Sets and Costumes
Costume designer Jérôme Kaplan’s elegant costumes and set designer Ernest Pignon-Ernest’s minimalistic backdrops create a stunning setting for the ballet. Nothing is extraneous; instead, these two artists have distilled the themes of the story to their most moving core.
