The Maiden of Venice

This performance presents a revival of a traditional narrative ballet, set to the vibrant and rhythmic music of Ludwig Minkus. You will hear a score that was originally composed to support the rigorous demands of nineteenth-century classical technique, offering a high-spirited accompaniment to the action on stage. This production features fresh choreography and creative direction by Carlos Acosta, who reimagines the story within a visual landscape designed by Anna Fleischle. As the evening unfolds, listen for the way the orchestration heightens the drama of hidden identities and the atmosphere of historical Venice. The staging makes use of elaborate costume and set designs to evoke the city's canals and architecture. Across the three acts, you can expect a balance of technically demanding ensemble numbers and intimate solos that drive the romantic and theatrical plot forward. The evening is structured as a full-length classical work, allowing the music and movement to develop the narrative arc at a deliberate, cinematic pace.

Birmingham Royal Ballet is one of the United Kingdom’s premier touring companies, based at their home theatre in the Midlands. They are widely recognised for their commitment to maintaining the classical canon while introducing contemporary perspectives to the stage. For this production, Yu Kurihara performs the central title role. The company is joined by conductor Gavin Sutherland, who brings his extensive experience in leading pit orchestras for major dance works. The ensemble is celebrated for its technical precision and its ability to deliver large-scale productions that combine athletic prowess with detailed character acting.

The performance takes place at the Birmingham Hippodrome, located in the heart of the city. With a total running time of 165 minutes, this is a substantial theatrical event that includes intervals. Given the duration and the narrative nature of the work, it is well-suited for those who enjoy a complete evening of storytelling through dance. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many patrons choose smart-casual attire. As a non-verbal ballet performance, there are no surtitles or language barriers to consider, making it accessible for international visitors and first-time attendees alike.