A Lively Celebration of Cultures

A Deep Dive into the Character Dances of Raymonda

In Rojo’s Raymonda, the acclaimed character dances by Choreographer Vadim Sirotin are a lively celebration of cultures and provide valuable historical context. Drawing inspiration from the original ballet’s traditional Hungarian and Middle Eastern influences, these character dances are reimagined to reflect the multicultural alliances of the Crimean War.

Kamryn Baldwin and Nathaniel Remez in the Hungarian Dance from Rojo's Raymonda // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo — Kamryn Baldwin and Nathaniel Remez in the Hungarian Dance from Rojo’s *Raymonda* // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo

The Ottoman soldiers perform intricate movements inspired by Middle Eastern dance, exuding strength and precision. The nurses and other supporting characters also participate in ensemble dances that highlight themes of camaraderie and unity. These dances not only showcase the characters’ cultural identities, but serve as a dynamic visual representation of the ballet’s central themes of harmony and connection amidst conflict.