Don Quixote ballet returns to Antalya stage after 12 years

Antalya State Opera and Ballet (Antalya DOB) are set to enchant art lovers with the long-awaited return of Don Quixote, bringing one of classical ballet’s most vibrant works back to the stage after a 12-year hiatus.

The premiere will take place on Sunday, April 14, at 8:00 p.m. at the Hasim Iscan Cultural Center, marking the final ballet premiere of the 2024–2025 artistic season.

Inspired by cervantes’ timeless novel

Based on Miguel de Cervantes’ legendary literary character, Don Quixote comes to life in a production rich with color, humor, and Spanish flair. The music, composed by Ludwig Minkus, and the original choreography by the famed Marius Petipa, have been revived for this modern staging.

Renowned Turkish choreographers Armagan Davran and Ayse Fidanlik direct the production, blending classical artistry with contemporary interpretation.

Star cast and international flair

The Antalya DOB Orchestra will perform under the baton of conductor Hakan Kalkan, with Sibel Aydin serving as concertmaster. Set design is crafted by Ozgur Usta, costumes by Serdar Basbug, and lighting design by Mustafa Eski.

The principal roles will feature a dynamic international and local cast. Cenk Sahinalp will portray Don Quixote, with Bogac Ozbakir as his loyal companion Sancho Panza. The role of Kitri will be shared by Rina Murata and Riine Sasaki, while Basilio will be danced by Kanat Nadyrbek Uulu, Ryuhei Ito, and Kaname Noi.

Other key roles include Evren Iskender as Gamache, Umut Caltekin as Lorenzo, Milina Fidan Ozbek and Sayaka Matsushita alternating as Mercedes, and Yagizhan Danis and Burak Ozbek sharing the role of Espada.

Encore performance on April 15

Following its premiere, Don Quixote will be performed once again on Tuesday, April 15, at 20:00 at the Hasim Iscan Cultural Center Opera Stage.

A limited number of tickets are available through the Antalya DOB box office and online. The production is open to audience members aged seven and above.