Houston Ballet, under the artistic direction of Australian Stanton Welch, is set to unveil a highly anticipated world premiere: a new production of the classic ballet Raymonda. Running from May 29 to June 8, 2025, at the Wortham Theater Center in Houston, this reimagined Raymonda promises a fresh perspective on the timeless story.
Welch, who has been at the helm of Houston Ballet since 2003, has taken inspiration from Marius Petipa’s original choreography while infusing the ballet with contemporary storytelling. This new iteration will explore themes of sisterhood, resilience, and the transformative power of love, aiming to resonate with modern audiences.
"With Raymonda, I wanted to breathe new life into a beautiful classic, giving its characters depth and creating a story that resonates with modern audiences,” said Stanton Welch AM, Artistic Director at Houston Ballet. “This ballet is about love, resilience, and the strength of sisterhood—universal themes that transcend time."
The plot follows Raymonda, whose heart belongs to one man despite being destined to marry another, but an insidious betrayal by the queen’s trusted advisor threatens to upend her path to happiness. Set to Glazunov’s vibrant and sensuous score, Raymonda invites audiences to revel in the lush soundscape while marveling at the lavish sets and costumes by Guidi di Bagno. A longtime collaborator with Welch, Guidi di Bagno’s creations promise unforgettable moments, including a breathtaking reveal in Act III designed to elicit audible gasps from the audience.
This world premiere of Stanton Welch’s Raymonda continues Houston Ballet’s established reputation for innovation and excellence on the global stage, joining the ranks of their celebrated full-length productions. The ballet will be presented on the Wortham Theater Center’s Brown Stage, the largest in Houston, allowing for a grand and immersive experience.
There is more information available on the Houston Ballet Website.
This new production marks another significant contribution from Australian choreographer Stanton Welch to the international ballet landscape, further solidifying Houston Ballet's position as a leading force in the art form.