Nureyev rechoreographed this production to make it conform with the original Marius Petipa version. This film version illuminates with new sets and costumes. Advanced camera techniques have been utilized to enhance the classic from the stage to the screen. This stunning performance from the Australian Ballet has been acclaimed as one of the best full-length dance films ever.

World-renowned dancer Rudolf Nureyev co-directed, starred in and restaged this version of Marius Petipa's comic ballet.
The light-hearted story, which is only loosely based on Cervantes' classic, concerns Basilio and Kitri, two young lovers who long to wed. Her father, however, is opposed to the match -- he would rather she marry the wealthy Gamache. But the clever Basilio, assisted by his friends Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, devises a sneaky plan to make sure he gets his bride.

Rudolf Nureyev originally staged this production of "Don Quixote" for the Australian Ballet in 1970. It was based on the 1869 ballet by Franco-Russian choreographer Marius Petipa; Petipa also created "Swan Lake" (with Lev Ivanov), "The Sleeping Beauty", "The Nutcracker", "La Bayadere" and "Le Corsaire".

DVD Features:

Region 1
Keep Case
Letterbox - 1.85
Additional Release Material:
Comparison of Old and Newly Restored versions of film
Documentary: Making-Of
Interactive Features:
Interactive Menus
Scene Access

Distributor Notes: Rudolf Nureyev and Robert Helpmann are thrilling in this Australian Ballet production. Also starring Lucette Aldous, Ray Powell, and Francis Croese. Shown in widescreen, and digitally restored to its' original brilliance. Includes bonus features.

Source: Kultur Films Inc.

Rudolf Nureyev: Ballet Dancer/Choreographer
Lucette Aldous: Ballet Dancer
Robert Helpmann: Actor/Dancer/Choreography