Tickets for Carmina Burana The Ballet are now available through the Dubai Opera website.
Dubai Opera has announced the premiere of Carmina Burana The Ballet, set to take place on May 23 and 24, 2025. This production reinterprets Carl Orff’s legendary cantata through a fusion of classical and contemporary ballet, offering audiences a bold and emotionally charged theatrical journey.
Known for its powerful opening chorus, O Fortuna, and its dramatic choral arrangements, Carmina Burana remains one of the most iconic works in the classical music canon. Under the direction of choreographer Edward Clug, this ballet adaptation transforms Orff’s score into a performance that explores the themes of destiny, desire and the fickleness of fortune. Clug’s choreography is matched by an evocative stage design and dramatic lighting that elevate the emotional impact of the piece.
Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera, said: “We are thrilled to present Carmina Burana The Ballet at Dubai Opera for the first time. This production reflects the artistic excellence and creativity we strive to deliver to our audiences. The powerful fusion of Orff’s score with Clug’s choreography offers a unique experience that is both emotionally stirring and visually striking. As a cultural landmark, Dubai Opera is dedicated to hosting world-class performances that inspire and engage, and this ballet is a brilliant addition to our season.”
The production is presented by the Ballet of the Slovene National Theatre Maribor, a company recognised internationally for its style that blends traditional ballet technique with contemporary expression. Since its premiere in 2021, this version of Carmina Burana has been praised for its artistic depth and dramatic flair. The creative team features set designer Marko Japelj, costume designer Leo Kulaš and lighting designer Tomaž Premzl, all contributing to a performance..
With only two performances scheduled, this limited engagement promises to be a highlight of Dubai’s cultural calendar. The one-hour performance, staged without intermission, is expected to draw ballet enthusiasts and lovers of classical music alike.