The Imperial Russian Ballet's production of Don Quixote is expected to be a night to remember.
The popular ballet will be performed at Rotorua's Civic Theatre tonight, as part of a nationwide tour.
Event manager Rachel Carey described the ballet as "flamboyant, festive and highly entertaining" and said it should not be missed.
"It really is a must-see show. It's just amazing, a real spectacle," she said.
"It's also quite comedic and fun to watch. You definitely won't be bored in this ballet."
Ms Carey said it was a rare treat to see a full production of Don Quixote. It was the first time the Imperial Russian Ballet had performed the full-length show in New Zealand, she said. The show will feature 37 experienced dancers performing a story backed with romance, action and comedy.
It tells the tale of Alonso Quijano, a retired Spanish gentleman who reads so many novels on chivalry, romance, princesses and knights, he starts to lose touch with reality. He goes searching for glory and grand adventure, accompanied by his faithful squire Sancho Panza.
The ballet is based on a novel of the same name, written by Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes, published in the early 1600s. It was first performed as a ballet in Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre in 1869. Ms Carey said Don Quixote's storyline was something most people would enjoy, as it was relatively upbeat and light-hearted.
The show was not just for ballet fans, she said. "It's the perfect ballet if you've never seen one before."
Ms Carey said there was a special buy one get one free ticket offer for locals.
Tickets from Ticketmaster, the Rotorua Convention Centre or call (07) 350 2244. Details, www.russianballet.co.nz.
Details
What: Don Quixote.
Where: Rotorua Civic Theatre.
When: Tonight, 8pm.
Cost: Adult $89; child $55; concession $79