Students of the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography took part in L. Minkus’ ballet Don Quixote as part of their stage practice. The performances took place on November 8-9, 2025, at the State Opera and Ballet Theatre Astana Opera. Sharing the stage with the theatre’s leading soloists, the young talents once again demonstrated their artistry and skill.

For the young dancers, this event - as always - became an important and valuable stage experience. The future artists, students of grades 2/6-3/7, appeared as cupids, street girls and boys, and little cooks, bringing additional charm to the production with their performances. The participation of children in the ballet highlights the continuity of generations in the art of dance.

Each fragment of the performance was met with delight, as the audience rewarded the dancers with enthusiastic applause and ovations.

Don Quixote is a classical ballet based on the novel by Miguel de Cervantes. It tells the story of the adventures of Don Quixote, a knight who seeks to uphold justice and protect the weak. Alongside his quest unfolds the love story of Kitri and Basil, full of both comic and dramatic moments. The ballet combines dynamic solos and duets with grand ensemble scenes, including festive celebrations, lively street gatherings, and spectacular dances.

Ultimately, the ballet is less about Don Quixote himself and more about love and the joy of life - which is precisely what makes it so beloved by audiences around the world.