Summary

Introduce

Korean National Ballet Introduction
A story of love and trials between Kitri, the innkeeper’s daughter, and Basilio the barber, as told by nobleman Gamache.
This version of the ballet condenses the traditional story of Don Quixote into three key scenes: “A Square in Barcelona,” “A Tavern,” and “The Wedding.” Each scene is accompanied by commentary.

Information

Act 1: A Square in Barcelona
In a bustling square where a bullfighter and dancing Spanish maidens animate the scene, Kitri, the daughter of an innkeeper, makes her appearance. Her beauty captivates every young man in the village, but her heart belongs to Basilio, the barber. However, Kitri’s father, Don Lorenzo, wants to marry her off to Ganache, a wealthy but dim nobleman.

Act 2: A Tavern
In a lively tavern, inebriated patrons dance with abandon. Don Lorenzo, Kitri’s father, arrives with Ganache and urges his daughter to marry Ganache. Flustered, Basilio brandishes a straight razor and feigns suicide. Embracing the fallen Basilio, Kitri’s tear-filled eyes plead with Don Quixote for help. Don Quixote brandishes his spear and demands that Don Lorenzo save Basilio’s life. Astonished, Don Lorenzo relents, approving the marriage between Kitri and Basilio, who suddenly rises and embraces Kitri. The scene concludes with Basilo and Kitri, surrounded by their friends, dancing joyously.

Act 3: The Wedding
The square is busy with preparations for Kitri and Basilio’s wedding. A group of young people enter. It’s a lively reception, filled with celebratory dancing. Amidst the joyous celebration, Kitri and Basilio appear in their wedding garb. They perform a grand pas de deux to declare their eternal love for each other.