Get a peek behind the scenes of La Bayadère!

On August 1–2, 2026, Boca Ballet Theatre will raise the curtain on one of ballet history’s most extravagant productions: La Bayadère. As we prepare for this full-length narrative ballet, we’re offering a peek behind the scenes of this production, including an exclusive look at the costumes, sets, and special effects audiences can look forward to this summer!

Vibrant costumes

First staged by Marius Petipa in imperial Russia, La Bayadère reflects a romanticized imagining of India. The costumes therefore blend together elements of Indian fashion as well as classical designs familiar to ballet enthusiasts. In this production, audiences can expect vibrant colors, glittering jewels and headdresses, flowing fabrics with opulent gold details, and intricate arm bands and fans. One of the ballet’s most iconic costumes belongs to the Golden Idol—a character meant to be the incarnation of a Hindu god—who is dressed head-to-toe in gold, including gilded body paint! Also distinctive to this ballet are unique two-piece classical tutus worn by the corps de ballet as well as beautifully draped skirts and harem-style pants, like the striking red pair worn by Nikiya in Act II. Of course, no ballet would be complete without the classical platter-style tutus audience have come to adore. Act III promises gorgeous, ghostly white costumes sure to mystify!

Sumptuous sets

To create the illusion of a mystical India, our technical crew will bring some of our most ornate sets and backdrops to the stage—from the forested temple where Nikiya and the temple dancers tend the sacred flame to the gilded, opulent interiors of the Raja’s royal palace, where Solor and Princess Gamzatti celebrate their engagement. Perhaps most memorable is Act III’s Kingdom of the Shades, where dancers playing wandering spirits descend a ramp shrouded in fog. Bathed in cool blue light onstage, the dancers seem to appear out of the darkness—or, as one will learn, out of a dream!

Special effects

To create the sense of magic this production is known for, BBT’s crew has plenty of special effects in store, including flickering flames and mysterious mists. Of course, we have other surprises in store as well, which we won’t spoil for you now! You’ll have to come to the show yourself to see how our dancers and crew bring La Bayadère to life!

La Bayadère

Set in the Royal India of the past, La Bayadère, or The Temple Dancer, follows a tragic love triangle between temple dancer Nikiya, warrior Solor, and the Rajah's daughter Gamzatti. Join Boca Ballet Theatre for this spectacular full-length narrative ballet, featuring elite principal guest artists alongside the exceptionally talented dancers attending BBT’s summer intensive. Reserve your tickets today!