MEXICO CITY – Situated in downtown Mexico City, Chapultepec Castle– one of only two royal castles in the Americas – is amongst Mexico's richest and most beloved landmarks. Home to Mexican Emperor Maximilian and Empress Carlota during the French Occupation, the site has also served as a presidential home, military academy, and the set of Baz Luhrmann's 1996 adaptation of Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet,” starring Leonardo Di Caprio and Claire Danes. Currently, the restored neoclassical building seats the National History Museum and remains a must-see site in the Mexican capital.
Spring, however, brings a special treat for locals and foreigners alike.
For two-and-a-half weeks, the castle will play home to the Charles Perrault fairytale classic, “Sleeping Beauty,” brought to life by the National Dance Company and members of the Ballet Folkórico de México (México’s Folkloric Ballet Company). The season – in its ninth year – begins on April 10, with its last presentation taking place on April 28. With 150 dancers onstage, its current rendition was choreographed by Jorge Canoand is based on Rosemary Valaire’s adaptation of the original by Marius Petipa.
Ramón Castrejón, from the National History Museum’s press office, told ARTINFO that the castle “is an emblematic and historical building where several important decisions in Mexican history have been made,” and that it should be used as a “venue to broadcast cultural experiences, to impact Mexican audiences.”
With stunning costume design by Rene Durón, breathtaking performances by Iratxe Beorlegui, Mónica Barragán and José Luis González, and a new set design that takes advantage of the stately structure, this spring season promises to be a memorable one in Mexican ballet.
Shows run from Wednesday to Saturday and tickets can be purchased here.