Meet the Characters of Tamara Rojo’s Raymonda

An Exploration of Love and War

From the courageous, compassionate Raymonda to the gallant soldiers and devoted nurses within this story, every character on stage contributes to the emotional depth and grandeur of Artistic Director and Choreographer Tamara Rojo’s reimagined Raymonda. The rich tapestry of personalities and vibrant storytelling in this production drive the narrative, masterfully blending history, romance, and resilience against the backdrop of the Crimean War. Learn more about the characters of Raymonda and the captivating scenes that bring the story to life, highlighting the cultural and historical elements of this extraordinary ballet.

Misa Kuranaga rehearsing Rojo's Raymonda // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo — Misa Kuranaga rehearsing Rojo’s *Raymonda* // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo

Raymonda: A noblewoman who embodies resilience and empathy, inspired by the real-life founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale. Raymonda travels from England to Sevastopol to serve as a nurse, tending to injured soldiers. During the war, she reconnects with John de Bryan, a family friend and member of the Light Brigade.

John de Bryan: A family friend of Raymonda and a soldier in the Light Brigade. Before departing for battle, he proposes marriage to Raymonda, seeking her hand and heart.

Fernando Carratalá Coloma rehearsing Rojo's Raymonda // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo — Fernando Carratalá Coloma rehearsing Rojo’s *Raymonda* // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo

Abdur Rahman: An ally from the Ottoman army and friend of John de Bryan. He pledges to look after Raymonda in John’s absence, creating a complex emotional dynamic as he develops feelings for her.

Sister Clemence: A close friend and confidante of Raymonda, Sister Clemence assists Raymonda in her nursing duties. She represents the camaraderie and solidarity among the women serving on the front lines.

Julia Rowe and Jasmine Jimison rehearsing Rojo's Raymonda // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo — Julia Rowe and Jasmine Jimison rehearsing Rojo’s *Raymonda* // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo

Henriette: Another nurse working alongside Raymonda. Henriette often provides moments of levity and warmth amidst the hardships of war, showcasing the human spirit’s endurance.

The Baroness de Bryan: John de Bryan’s mother, who represents the traditional Victorian values that Raymonda battles with. The Baroness is eager to see Raymonda marry her son and maintain the family’s social standing.