A magnificent Don Quixote by the National Ballet of Cuba at the Grand Palais in Paris, directed for DVD by Denis Caiozzi.<br /><br />Founded by "prima ballerina assoluta" Alicia Alonso over fifty years ago, the National Ballet of Cuba -- one of the world's best companies -- gives an insight into its extraordinary talent with Don Quixote.<br />This joyous, sparkling work is perfectly suited to the company's mix of classicism and panache -- a style that combines Russian technique and American rapidity with a thoroughly Latin sensibility. <br />Performed in the original Alicia Alonso version, Don Quixote devotes all of its two hours to authentic Spanish dance: sensational portés, vertiginous leaps, splendid pirouettes, sublime solos and stunning variations.<br />Viengsay Valdés (Kitri) and Romel Frómeta (Basilio) are an absolute delight: technical prowess, powerful stage presence and a flair that permeates every step, every movement.
