Don Quixote – Act III Kitri Variation (Akane Takada, The Royal Ballet)

Don Quixote is one of Marius Petipa's much-loved 19th-century classics - its story is drawn from Miguel de Cervantes's classic novel and set to Ludwig Minkus's score. The ballet has long been acclaimed for its virtuoso dancing, beautiful and technically demanding 'vision scene' and the famously bravura and breath-taking Act III pas de deux.

Carlos Acosta's production was created for The Royal Ballet in 2013, and brings the sunshine of Spain and the exuberance of the entire Company to the stage. Acosta created new choreography for the gypsy scene in Act II, and uniquely for this production of Don Quixote added on-stage musicians. Warmth, charm and entertainment abound in this energetic and witty ballet, reflected too in the characterful backdrops of Tim Hatley's vibrant designs.

[RoyalBalletAndOpera]

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[laurajohnson]

Her little eyebrow lift before the relevés is just everything.

[letlotlosibanda]

I love how Akane brings a different dynamic to Kitri. We all know Kitri to be a vibrant, fierce and bold character. Akane has brought a more calmer, softer and almost teasing Kitri. I love the usual portrayal of Kitri but I also actually enjoy the softer side that Akane has brought.

[kp]

She danced gorgeously! I cannot help but notice the man screaming during the applause at the end. A true enthusiastic hero.

[うさうさ-zd]

I am proud of her as an Japanese🤍 She is our treasure🤍
She showed us kind of a new Kitri with her unique and subtle expressions!

[choochibi]

Huh, I actually really like her in that role, it's a bit of a refreshing change from the usual casting of Kitri. And Akane Takada's technique is flawless. I personally also really enjoy her cheeky smile and the outstanding pointe work ♥️

[karenkaren]

Beautiful dancer, when she lands it is like a feather floating to the ground. Love her❤️

[glynnwright]

Akane Takada is a joy to watch live at the ROH; she may not conform to the stereotype of the role, but her artistry is breathtaking and my family seeks out performances that include her. I am flying back early from a business trip in the USA, so that I will not miss her performing this role.

[emily_]

I love the hand movements this dancer does just as much as the foot work. The little way she claps the fan into her hand brings me joy.

[taylorflame]

She reminds me of the ballerina I had in my music box as a child. So elegant, graceful, strong. She is a wonderful dancer.

[jasmynedelcarmen]

So happy to have witnessed her growth from her Prix de Lausanne days and now to becoming Principal of the Royal Ballet. Love her!

[anastasialenkova-molchalin]

Her technique is so good! Especially her jumps and échappé!

[Lia_]

Her dance looks so clean, we can see every move being well executed

[helazemni]

She is defently underrated ❤️Her dancing is near to absolutely perfect 💕

[eleanoralloyd]

The Tutu, The Fan, The Crown, The Pointeshoes, The Music, The EVERYTHING IS

[ぷじぃ]

衣装も踊りもとても素敵です✨


The white classic tutu is so beautiful ✨

[ferencrupeck]

Just absolutely stunning. A superlative performance. Gracefully elegant yet also playful & packed with fun & frivolity.

[Marina-rusz]

Its di great watching the rehearsals and them watching the final product and seeing it all come together

[.lps__]

私のスキップは茜ちゃんのおかげで出来るようになりました笑
3歳の頃から見てきたけど、どんどん素敵さは増すばかり。

[eve_le]

She looks gorgeous and beautiful in this dance! I think she really deserves he role.