Ballet
La Esmeralda
La Esmeralda is a story ballet based on Victor Hugo's novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. It centers on a kind hearted street dancer and the people whose lives tangle around her. It is dramatic and romantic, and its solos often show up at galas.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Cesare Pugni
- Choreographer
- Jules Perrot, with later revivals by Marius Petipa
- Premiere
- 1844, London
- Structure
- Three acts
The story
The story follows Esmeralda, a young street dancer in Paris who is admired by several very different men. Among them are a poor poet, a nobleman she loves, and the bell ringer Quasimodo, who cares for her deeply. Jealousy and cruelty put her in danger throughout the ballet. Different productions vary in how the story ends, with some following the sad tone of the novel more closely than others. It is known for its expressive dancing and its famous tambourine solo.
What La Esmeralda is famous for
- based on Hugo's Hunchback of Notre Dame
- the tambourine dance
- a dramatic lead role
- popular solos at galas
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
What book is La Esmeralda based on?
It is based on Victor Hugo's novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Who choreographed it?
Jules Perrot created the original, and Marius Petipa staged well known later versions in Russia.
Why is the tambourine dance famous?
Esmeralda's tambourine solo is one of the ballet's signature moments and is often performed on its own.
Who composed La Esmeralda?
La Esmeralda was composed by Cesare Pugni.
How long is La Esmeralda?
La Esmeralda is a three acts ballet; running time varies by production.