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With Carlos Acosta’s production of Don Quixote making a return in February, here we revisit a conversation with principal dancer Momoko Hirata from BRB's premiere in 2022. We captured her thoughts on the role of Kitri, the ballet’s fiery, sparkling protagonist.
Momoko is one of the world’s finest ballerinas. She has picked up an extensive list of five-star reviews, audience praise and award nominations throughout her career. Her captivating artistry and physical effortlessness never fail to produce anything short of exceptional performance.
You have danced the iconic and technically challenging role of Kitri in sections of pas de deux for gala performances; did you enjoy delving deeper into her character to perform the entire ballet?
I have indeed danced the Wedding pas de deux for galas in the past and I have thoroughly enjoyed it every time, despite it being technically very difficult. With regards to the character, I always enjoy dancing ballets with a great story. Doing so allows me to put my thoughts, ideas and personality into the character I’m performing. The acting adds another dimension to the ballet while making the character relatable to both the audience and me. Learning the role of Kitri was a great immersive experience.
What makes the role of Kitri so special?
I haven’t danced any roles like Kitri before. She’s feisty, confident, and very cheeky, yet she’s so in love with Basilio. She’s a real person like me, rather than a fairytale character I have to use my imagination to play. I think my personality translates well into her character. Additionally, Carlos is very keen to make us look as natural as possible, especially in Act I, which I believe helps bring out the unique Spanish flavours of Kitri and the story.
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There is a lot of comedy in Don Quixote, how are you finding this?
Timing is key when it comes to comedy. To make it work, you must be in the right place at the right time while making it look natural. I’m always working on how to make it look subtle and convincing. I hope that our audiences have as much fun watching this ballet as we have fun performing it.
Did you learn Flamenco as a student? If so, has this helped when learning the choreography?
No, I never learnt Flamenco during my student years and had never attended a Flamenco lesson before. This was very much a new style for me! However, when Carlos coaches he is very specific in his teaching and in the ways in which he moves. He is also naturally able to communicate and demonstrate the essence of the Flamenco style because of his Cuban heritage. As a result, I have been able to learn and am continuing to learn a lot from him. During his rehearsals I try to absorb every detail.
Don Quixote is a ballet full of energy, joy and extravagance. Brighten your winter with the summery feels and virtuoso dancing of this lively Spanish production when it opens in February at Birmingham Hippodrome.
