Ballet
Raymonda
Raymonda is a grand, glittering classical ballet packed with gorgeous dancing. Its story is a bit of a fairy tale tangle, but dancers and audiences love it for Glazunov's lush score and its famous Hungarian-flavored final act. It is a real showcase of classical technique.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Alexander Glazunov
- Choreographer
- Marius Petipa
- Premiere
- 1898, Mariinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg
- Structure
- Three acts
- Running time
- About 2 hours 30 minutes with intervals
The story
The noblewoman Raymonda is betrothed to a knight, Jean de Brienne, who is away at the Crusades. A visiting Saracen lord, Abderakhman, tries to win her, but Raymonda stays true to Jean, who returns in time to defeat his rival. The ballet ends with a lavish wedding celebration danced in a Hungarian style.
What Raymonda is famous for
- Glazunov's rich score
- the Hungarian-style final act
- demanding classical solos for the lead
- grand Petipa choreography
Companies that perform Raymonda
Raymonda is in the repertoire of companies including Bolshoi Ballet, La Scala Theatre Ballet.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Who composed Raymonda?
Alexander Glazunov composed the score, and Marius Petipa created the original choreography for the Mariinsky in 1898.
Why is Raymonda's last act famous?
The final act is danced in a Hungarian-inspired style and is full of celebrated solos, so it is often performed on its own as Raymonda Act III.
Is Raymonda hard to dance?
Yes, the title role is considered a major test of classical technique and stamina for a ballerina.
Who composed Raymonda?
Raymonda was composed by Alexander Glazunov.
How long is Raymonda?
Raymonda runs about 2 hours 30 minutes with intervals.