Romeo and Juliet

Man is irrational and Jean-Christophe Maillot’s ballets constantly illustrate this impulsive nature that routinely overflows the frameworks imposed on him. Pretending otherwise by attempting to reason is unfortunately often synonymous with disappointment. This is the tragedy of Brother Laurent in Romeo and Juliet, a ballet that has widely contributed to the international reputation of the Ballets de Monte-Carlo. Brother Laurent thinks he can end the war between the Capulets and the Montagues. He hopes to make them see reason by using the love felt by their two children, but nothing good can come of this good intention; Romeo and Juliet’s impatience makes them uncontrollable and the hate felt by both families blinds those that have the power to bring peace. Until the tragic outcome, human nature will prove impervious to any reflection.

Choreography: Jean-Christophe Maillot
Based on the play by: William Shakespeare
Music: Sergueï Prokofiev
Scenography: Ernest Pignon-Ernest
Costumes: Jérôme Kaplan
Lighting: Dominique Drillot
Premiere held on December 23rd 1996, Salle Garnier Opéra de Monte-Carlo