The world famous ballet “Paquita” will be staged at the Opera House of the National Centre for the Performing Arts from May 16 to 18, by the Opera National de Paris. With 347 years of history, the Opera National de Paris is reputed to be the cradle of classical ballet, upon which the basic principles of ballet, body shapes, and dance steps have been based.

Originally choreographed by Mazilier, the Ballet “Paquita” made its debut on Opera National de Paris in 1846. Subsequently, adapted by the famous dancer Marius Petipa, it was staged at St. Petersburg on January 8, 1882, and the full-length edition was performed in Russia until the breakout of the October revolution. “Paquita” has become an example of a successful export of French style ballet.

The edition for the National Centre for the Performing Arts is re-created by Pierre Lacotte, renowned as “the archaeologist of ballet in 19th century”. Romantic stage design and luxurious costumes make the play more exciting. Different from other ballets, “Paquita” has intricate plots which can compare with drama. Many pantomimic expressive ways have been borrowed for the ballet, and Spanish style dance has been blended in, making the French ballet passionate and energetic.

Character dance (a folk dance in ballet) is another “Paquita’s” highlights and has an important role in expressing atmosphere, driving the plot ahead and enriching the dance. Different dances are involved in the ballet, including Spanish style and Gypsy flavor dances as well as Mazurka (a folk dance from Poland), which have laid the foundation for the character dance.