On May 23 and 24, 2025, audiences will witness an immersive spectacle that blends music, motion, and raw emotion, as the Ballet of the Slovene National Theatre Maribor presents this highly acclaimed production at the prestigious Dubai Opera.

This May, Dubai Opera will bring a bold and breathtaking reinterpretation of Carl Orff’s legendary Carmina Burana to its grand stage. The iconic cantata, known for its powerful choral arrangements and thunderous opening "O Fortuna," will be transformed into a visually stunning ballet, fusing classical and contemporary and mindbending-ly fluid movement in an electrifying performance.

Carmina Burana - The Ballet

Carmina Burana The Ballet Dubai Opera House photo by Tiberiu Marta

Photo: Tiberiu Marta

Carmina Burana is far more than just an epic musical composition, it’s an exploration of fate, desire, and the ever-changing tides of fortune.

Through the artistry of renowned choreographer Edward Clug, this ballet adaptation breathes new life into Orff’s masterpiece, using expressive dance, evocative staging, and innovative movement to bring its themes into sharp focus.

Every scene pulses with intensity and elegance, as Clug’s choreography captures the highs and lows of human experience, making each moment viscerally compelling. And with just two performances on May 23 and 24, 2025, this exclusive event is a rare opportunity to experience one of classical music’s most powerful compositions transformed into an exhilarating ballet.

Dubai Opera House via unsplash artem-korolev

For Dubai Opera, hosting this groundbreaking ballet is a testament to its commitment to artistic excellence. Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera, expressed his enthusiasm for the production, stating:

"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 fusion of Orff’s powerful score with Clug’s compelling 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."

A Stellar Creative Team

Since debuting in 2021, Carmina Burana – The Ballet has captivated audiences worldwide with its compelling movement, artistic innovation, and sheer emotional force.

Bringing this production to life requires a visionary team, each contributing to the spectacle and grandeur of the ballet. Set designer Marko Japelj crafts a dynamic visual landscape, while costume designer Leo Kulaš infuses the performance with rich textures and striking contrasts. The carefully curated lighting by Tomaž Premzl adds a layer of depth and drama, ensuring that every movement resonates with the audience.

Carmina Burana - The Ballet,
Friday, May 23 at 8pm and Saturday, May 24 at 5pm and 8pm
Tickets available now, starting from Dhs330 per person
Buy your tickets here
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
@dubaiopera @operabaletmaribor

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