The libretto for this ballet, based on Lord Byron’s eponymous epic poem from 1814, was written in 1855 by Jules-Henri Vernoy de Saint-Georges. Le Corsaire was first staged to Adolphe Adam’s music in Paris, in 1856, where it was choreographed by Joseph Mazilier, whereas Petipa’s choreography was staged only at the end of the 19th century for the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. Although the ballet masterpiece that will be presented on our stage for the first time is regarded as one of the most impressive and narrative works from the classical ballet repertoire, it was performed only by few ballet theatres until the mid-20th century. In the 1960s, two great dancers, Margot Fontayne and Rudolf Nurejev, strongly contributed to its popularity, especially with their stunning appearances in its famous pas de deux. Thus Le Corsaire become a much desired ballet story within the repertoires of all major ballet companies around the world, as well as a grateful theme, tackled by many choreographers, who have persistently created its new and new versions. The story of this classical ballet fairy tale revolves around a see Captain Conrad, who is outlawed by the society and thus forced into piracy. His fate, however, turns around quickly: a beautiful girl, Medora, who is held captive in Seid Pasha’s harem, and into whom Conrad falls in love, faces him with yet another trial. The Captain and his companions devise a plan to attack the harem. Thus the brave man sets for an exciting adventure to free his beloved girl and win her heart.

Le Corsaire, never seen on our stage before, has been entrusted to the outstanding Spanish dancer and choreographer Carlos Martinez, who dedicated himself in recent years to choreographing and artistic managing of the Spanish National Dance Ensemble. The orchestra will be conducted by Mojca Lavrenčič.

Text: Tatjana Ažman