Birmingham Day Retreat
For our autumn Day Retreat, we’re heading to Spain (not literally, sadly) and diving into the spirited story of Don Quixote!
The ballet, which was first performed in Moscow at the Bolshoi Theatre in 1869, was originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and set to music by Ludwig Minkus and is considered one of the big 4 classics alongside The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker.
This specific production made for The Royal Ballet by former Principal dancer Carlos Acosta is famous for its virtuoso flair, dazzling technically challenges and vibrant characters, including Kitri and Basilio, the leading duo whose variations from the Act 1 Finale we will be learning for this Day Retreat. Kitri’s vibrant and strong-willed personality bursts through her daring turns, fiery footwork and incredible jumps alongside her lover Basilio, with his playful and witty charm demonstrated through dynamic pirouettes and barrelled leaps.
Take a look at Carlos himself alongside Royal Ballet Principal ballerina Marianela Nunez OBE dance the 2 variations here, up to 1 min 56 seconds.
This Day Retreat is tailored for adult ballet dancers at a strong Improver - Intermediate level dancers and above. The repertoire will be modified to suit the level stipulated.
Take a look at our Level Guide for more info.
Castanets and fans welcome!
14 spaces remaining
Karis Scarlette coaching dancers during our Day Retreat in 2023, photo by Gabriel Anderson
30min mobility and PBT warm up
75min ballet class
2.5 hours of Don Quixote repertoire workshop
30mins stretch and relaxing breathwork to finish
What’s not included?
Accommodation if you are travelling from outside of Birmingham however recommendations are available upon request.
Your travel expenses to and from the studio and/or to and from Birmingham.
Your food and drink throughout the day
Your Day Retreat includes:
Investment for this Day Retreat:
£65 - early bird price valid until 15th September, £80 thereafter.
Your participation is secured by payment in full or by a 30% deposit, and please note this deposit is non-refundable but can be transferrable.
Payments must be completed in full no later than 4 weeks before the start date of the retreat after which time no refunds are available on either balance.
New bookings made after this date will need to be completed in full.
“I enjoyed the Day Retreat so much, and really can’t wait for the next one!”
“These events are always so much fun, exciting and challenging and it’s great to meet up with the adult ballet gang for a weekend!”
“I felt so inspired and motivated by the London Mini Retreat, I really didn’t want it to end.”
Please ensure you have read our Mini and Day Retreat Terms and Conditions before booking a ballet retreat.
You can find them below and please don’t hesitate to ask me any questions at all. I am very much looking forward to having you join us on this very unique experience.