The Leopard. Italy in the 19th century is a beautiful show which offers a selection of the best Dances composed during Italy’s Romanticism, including arias from the most famous Italian Operas as well as the most elegant and entertaining Neapolitan songs of the 19th century. They are woven into the narration of a story, The Leopard, that above all else symbolizes the 19th century in Italy both in literature and at the movies.

The work by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa is an evergreen novel, and may very well be considered as the most important literary work of the century. The novel’s themes, emotions and settings are at the core of our show. Besides portraying the experience of the Risorgimento through the eyes of the Sicilian aristocracy, the Ball is an extraordinary fresco of the society of the time, its habits, and its customs. A historical period that witnessed the aspiration to freedom and progress clash against a fading ancient régime.

This was narrated with a great sense of beauty and loyalty by Luchino Visconti in his cinematic masterpiece. The Leopard. Italy in the 19th century draws inspiration from the unforgettable film scenes of the ball featuring the original Mazurka and Quadrille choreographies developed by Master Alberto Testa along with the new ones Master Nino Graziano Luca designed using the register of historical dances on the notes of Giuseppe Verdi’s Valzer Brillante and the other pieces by Nino Rota: Contredanse, Polka, Farewell Waltz and Galop.

The Leopard. Italy in the 19th century is a very captivating ball since it does not simply conjure up the spirit of Italy’s 19th century by performing spectacular dances on the notes of beautiful music, arias and songs, but brings everyone into the joyous experience of dancing.

As soon as they arrive, participants become the protagonists of an ever-changing experience. No matter where the Ball is held, be it a Theater, a Festival, a Gala or a Convention, dancers wearing costumes welcome guests. At different times during the program, guests are tutored in and engaged in simple dances from those bygone days, pairing up with CNDS dancers and towards the end of the show, they all come together for a family photograph.

It is not an easy task today to amaze, entertain and amuse an audience that is used to traveling the world! The Leopard. Italy in the 19th century is a unique and truly magical experience that will stay carved in the hearts of guests thanks to its modular structure that aims at securing the proactive participation of each and every participant.

The Leopard. Italy in the 19th century features for to eight professional dancers, a Master of Ceremonies and one or two opera singers. Music is pre-recorded.