The Maiden of Venice

We are presented with a transformation of a nineteenth-century classic, where the narrative setting shifts to the waterways and hidden corridors of Venice. You will hear the familiar, rhythmic drive of the score by Ludwig Minkus, which provides a high-spirited foundation for the physical storytelling. The evening is defined by a sense of movement and mystery, brought to life through the production and costume designs of Anna Fleischle. As you watch, listen for the way the orchestration supports the character dances and the specific atmosphere of the masked balls. The choreography by Carlos Acosta aims to balance the precision of classical technique with a fresh narrative perspective. You should expect a visually rich experience where the set and costumes are as integral to the drama as the steps themselves. The score remains a cornerstone of the genre, offering the kind of melodic energy that has sustained its popularity for generations.

Birmingham Royal Ballet is one of the United Kingdom’s premier touring companies, known for maintaining a large-scale classical repertoire while exploring new artistic directions. Based at the Birmingham Hippodrome, they are celebrated for their technical rigour and theatrical depth. For this performance, Yu Kurihara takes the lead role, supported by the full company. Gavin Sutherland conducts, bringing his extensive experience with ballet scores to the podium. The ensemble is recognized for its ability to deliver demanding choreography with both clarity and emotional resonance, making them a fixture of the British dance scene.

The performance takes place at the Birmingham Hippodrome, a venue well-suited to large-scale productions. With a running time of approximately 165 minutes, including intervals, it is a substantial evening out. The duration and the narrative nature of the work make it an appropriate choice for those new to the art form as well as regular attendees. There is no specific dress code for this venue, so you may wear what feels comfortable for a three-hour visit. As this is a ballet, the story is told entirely through music and movement without the need for surtitles.