The Maiden of Venice

The evening presents a nineteenth-century score by Ludwig Minkus, providing a tuneful and rhythmic foundation for this narrative work. You will hear the melodic charm typical of the era, which supports the physical storytelling on stage. This production features choreography and direction by Carlos Acosta, who has sought to update the traditional language of the form. The visual world is defined by Anna Fleischle’s set and costume designs, which aim to evoke the atmosphere of Venice. As the performance unfolds, listen for how the music guides the emotional beats of the plot, moving between grand group sequences and intimate solos. The structure follows a standard multi-act format, characteristic of large-scale classical works, where the orchestral textures reflect the shifting moods of the central narrative. It is a work that balances the technical requirements of the form with a contemporary approach to staging, ensuring that the legacy of the original music remains central to the experience.

Birmingham Royal Ballet is one of the United Kingdom’s premier touring companies, known for its extensive repertoire that spans heritage classics and new commissions. Based at the Birmingham Hippodrome, they frequently bring large-scale productions to regional theatres across the country. In this performance, Yu Kurihara takes the central title role. The orchestra is led by conductor Gavin Sutherland, a frequent collaborator with the company who is well-versed in the specific demands of conducting for dance, ensuring a close synchronization between the pit and the stage.

This performance takes place at the Theatre Royal Plymouth and has a total running time of approximately two hours and 45 minutes, including intervals. Given the narrative focus and the clear musical structure, it is well-suited to those who enjoy long-form storytelling or visitors who are new to the medium. There is no specific dress code for this venue, though many patrons choose smart-casual attire. You should check the venue’s arrival instructions closer to the date, as latecomer policies usually apply to large-scale staged works.