Book lovers and fans of timeless classics are invited to experience five acclaimed productions inspired by legendary literature at Bangkok’s 28th International Festival of Dance & Music, bringing beloved stories and characters to life through world-class performances, powerful music and spectacular stage productions.
This year, Bangkok Festivals invites audiences to turn the page and experience the magic of literature in an entirely new dimension. From Shakespearean tragedies and classic fairy tales to iconic works exploring identity, ambition and the American Dream, these five productions transform stories once imagined through words into living, breathing performances on stage.
Romeo & Juliet: Shakespeare’s Timeless Tragedy of Love
William Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy has captivated audiences for more than 400 years. This iconic story of forbidden love takes on a new dimension as a ballet by the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus, transforming Shakespeare’s written language into the language of movement.
The production follows two young lovers caught in the bitter feud between their families, combining Sergei Prokofiev’s celebrated score with choreography by Valentin Elizariev, a National Artist of the Soviet Union and the Republic of Belarus. Through powerful movement and expressive choreography, audiences will experience the characters’ pain, hope and heartbreak in a deeply emotional interpretation of the classic tale.
Cinderella: A Classic Fairy Tale for Every Generation
One of the world’s most beloved fairy tales, familiar to generations through books, animation and film, Cinderella is brought vividly to life by the Bolshoi Theatre of Belarus.
Known for its spectacular sets, lighting, costumes and sound, the production was recognised with the 2025 National Theatre Prize for Best Ballet Production. Audiences are invited to follow Cinderella as she overcomes the cruelty of her stepmother and stepsisters, discovering the strength to move forward with confidence and a belief in her own worth.
The Pygmalion Effect: From Classic Myth to Contemporary Ballet Comedy
Readers fascinated by Greek mythology will recognise the legendary story of Pygmalion, which also inspired the Broadway classic My Fair Lady. In this contemporary adaptation, Boris Eifman, a National Artist of Russia and founder of Eifman Ballet, reimagines the story as a captivating ballet comedy.
The production explores the complex relationship between a ballroom dancing champion, portrayed as the “creator”, and a street girl who is transformed into a queen of the competitive ballroom world. Blending humour, movement and dramatic storytelling, The Pygmalion Effect invites audiences to reflect on identity, success and the true meaning of happiness.
Russian Hamlet: Shakespeare Reimagined Through Russian Royal Intrigue
Inspired by Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Eifman Ballet presents a dramatic reinterpretation centred on Prince Paul, heir to the Russian throne, whose life is shaped by the trauma of witnessing his father’s assassination, orchestrated to clear the way for his mother to claim the throne.
The royal court becomes a world of suspicion, betrayal and political intrigue. Eifman transforms Shakespeare’s celebrated words and psychological drama into powerful, intense choreography, conveying the turmoil of a young heir caught between personal tragedy and the ruthless dynamics of royal power.
The Great Gatsby: The American Dream and the Jazz Age
Closing the literary journey is The Great Gatsby, adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel. The spectacular production transports audiences to the golden age of America, an era defined by glamour, wealth and extravagant parties.
At its heart is Jay Gatsby, the mysterious millionaire who hosts lavish parties night after night while waiting for the woman he loves. Through contemporary dance, jazz music and an elaborate production recreating the atmosphere of booming 1920s New York, The Great Gatsby explores the beauty and fragility of the American Dream.
Experience Literature in a New Dimension
Experience these iconic stories beyond the pages and discover how legendary works of literature are transformed into extraordinary live performances at Bangkok’s 28th International Festival of Dance & Music.
Tickets are now available through 17 October 2026 at all ThaiTicketMajor outlets and www.thaiticketmajor.com. For further information, visit Bangkok Festivals.
The 28th Bangkok International Festival of Dance & Music is supported by leading public- and private-sector partners, including AXA Insurance Public Company Limited, Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited, B.Grimm Power Public Company Limited, Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, Singha Corporation Company Limited, Supalai Public Company Limited, Thai Union Group Public Company Limited, Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Ministry of Culture.
