Dance Theatre staging its inaugural 'Don Quixote'

For the very first time in its 23-year history, the Hilton Head Dance Theatre is bringing one of the most joyous classical ballets to life.

Under the artistic direction of Karena Brock-Carlyle and her husband, John, the group will present "Don Quixote" at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina from Thursday through April 6.

The earliest production of "Don Quixote" as a ballet took place in 1740s Vienna. But it was more than a hundred years later that Marius Petipa's dance version, set to music by Leon Minkus, made its debut. This is the production that would become the standard ballet version of the tale and it includes the popular pas de deux (dance for two) that has been frequently presented outside the context of the ballet.

Artistic director and former American Ballet Theatre principal dancer Karena Brock-Carlyle danced that pas de deux countless times during her long tenure with the ABT, and considers it one of her favorites.But never having performed in a full-length production of "Don Quixote" (it was added to ABT's repertoire after her departure), Brock says she's relished doing the research necessary to bring this "delightful ballet" to life for another generation.

Guest artist Peter Kozak, who has appeared in Dance Theatre productions since 1990, says he's also enthusiastic about the opportunity to appear in the full-length version for the first time in a career that has taken him around the country and includes many years with the Columbia City Ballet and the Joffrey Ballet. He said that the experience is enhanced, as it comes with the added bonus of the Carlyles. "John and Karena are amazing in their ability to nurture dancers and help them with the musicality of the role.Sometimes that gets lost in some of the larger companies I have performed with."

Other guests include former American Ballet Theatre apprentice and Joffrey Ballet dancer Sam Pergande in the role of the Toreador, and Columbia City Ballet dancer Robert Michalski in the role of Gamasche.

John Carlyle will portray the delusional Don Quixote, and Rob Tillison will play the part of comic squire Sancho Panza.

The demanding role of Kitri has been given to company member Lyndsay Ogden, who says she's excited to be a part of the show. "The role calls for lots of acting and includes explosive dancing," she said. "Karena has been so supportive, and now that Peter is here, he too is helping me take it above and beyond."

Stepping in for an injured Justine Hale, the role of Mercedes will be shared by Jillian Caron and Lauren Ladermann. Sharing the roles of Dulcinea and the Flower Girl will be Ruthie Fuller and Teresa Pearman.