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"La Bayadere" is a refreshing and everlasting beautiful masterpiece choreographed by the genius Marius Petipa in 1877.

This is the very first time Hong Kong Ballet put on stage the complete "La Bayadere". That will be the new adaptation by Dawn Weller, which has been premiered in 1996 with critical acclaim. She is recognised as one of the prime movers in bringing the State Theatre Ballet of South Africa to a level of sustained excellence and of international calibre. The production also includes the frequent awards winner, Peter Cazalet, as the scenery and costume designer to guarantee audience for enjoyment of the spectacular production spiked with tender emotions and sensuous passion.

The story sets in an exotic locale - the fantastical India of lush splendour with native dances, colourful settings and glamorous costumes. This great Russian classic is a glorious epic of eternal love and godly revenge. It revolves around Nikiya, one of the sacred temple dancers known as bayaderes. She is in love with a warrior, Solor. But the pair of star-crossed lovers is forced to be apart.

The performances will be accompanied with live orchestral music by the Hong Kong Sinfonietta.

Hong Kong Ballet, established twenty years ago, has become one of the foremost classical ballet companies in Asia. With an adventurous policy of creating a unique repertoire, this young and vibrant company has created many critically-acclaimed original productions. The growing success has been matched by a steady increase in audience levels while its international recognition is demonstrated by its popular demand for overseas touring. The Company has presented a broad-based repertoire, from the world's major classical works to modern pieces by internationally known choreographers. Recent productions includes "Lady of the Camellias", "The Nutcracker", " 'Still Life' at the Penguin Cafe", "The Sleeping Beauty", "Beauty and the Beast", "La Fille Mal Gardee", etc.

Tickets priced from $100 to $260 are now available at all URBTIX outlets. Half-price concession will be granted to senior citizens, people with disabilities and full time students. For other discount schemes, please refer to programme booklet.

Details of the programme schedule are as follows:

September 16(7.30pm)        Kwai Tsing Theatre Auditorium


September 17(2.30pm)        Kwai Tsing Theatre Auditorium


September 22-23(7.30pm)     Sha Tin Town Hall Auditorium


September 24(2.30pm)        Sha Tin Town Hall Auditorium


September 30(7.30pm)        Tuen Mun Town Hall Auditorium


October 1(2.30pm)           Tuen Mun Town Hall Auditorium

There are also lecture and workshops in order to tie in with the production. Lectures will be conducted in Cantonese. Details are as follows:

"Deconstructing La Bayadere - An Analysis of Style and Technique"


Speakers: Stella Lau, Christina Lai, Allen Lam


September 2       3-4 pm


AC2, 4/F, Adm. Bldg., Hong Kong Cultural Centre


Admission: HK$ 30




"An Introduction to Stage Techniques" (with demostration)


September 24      5-6 pm (after matinee)


Sha Tin Town Hall Auditorium




October 1          5-6 pm (after matinee)

Admission: Free admission for "La Bayadere" ticket holders, seats available on first-come, first-served basis.

For programme enquiries: 2734 2937; Ticketing enquiries and reservations: 2734 9009.

This is a Dance Spectrum programme, for other programme details, please refer to programme booklet or visit our web site at www.dancespectrum.hkevents.net

End/Wednesday, August 30, 2000

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