Le Corsaire by Mariinksy Ballet

A cornerstone of classical ballet, Le Corsaire captivates audiences with its thrilling blend of piracy and adventure, romance and betrayal, Oriental exoticism and virtuosic technique. The production features dramatic shipwrecks and abduction scenes, enhanced by exotic character dances, opulent costumes, and diverse ensemble work that create spectacular theatricality. After choreographer Jules Perrot introduced it to St. Petersburg, Marius Petipa further elevated the ballet’s artistic vision—most notably through the iconic “Le Jardin Animé” scene. With its dual heroines and trio of male leads, the ballet showcases the full technical brilliance of classical ballet: demanding variations, intricate pas de deux, a whirlwind of fouettés, and soaring leaps unfold in succession. This makes Le Corsaire both a rite of passage for young dancers and a perennial audience favorite.