Roberto Bolle, one of the world’s leading dance stars, will make his Mexico debut on August 30 at the Auditorio Nacional as part of the upcoming Despertares event. Prior to his arrival, Bolle granted an exclusive interview to El Economista.
Roberto Bolle: A Legendary Career in Dance
Since Isaac Hernández announced the upcoming Despertares edition, one name stood out among dance enthusiasts: Roberto Bolle. Yes, Roberto Bolle will perform in Mexico for the first time! The Italian artist, with an impeccable artistic career, adds another country to his map and joins the diverse roster of artists who have debuted in Mexico thanks to the Hernández brothers’ project, Soul Arts Productions.
Thirty-five years have passed since Rudolf Nureyev discovered Bolle’s talent and cast him as Tadzio in Death in Venice. Today, Bolle’s career is legendary, having graced stages and danced with prestigious companies worldwide, including the Royal Ballet of London, the National Ballet of Canada, the Stockholm Ballet, the Tokyo Ballet, the American Ballet Theatre of New York, the operas of Berlin, Vienna, Munich, the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, and the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.
Exclusive Interview with El Economista
El Economista conducted the first interview Bolle granted to a Mexican media outlet as a prelude to his debut in the country.
Bolle’s Thoughts on Upcoming Choreographies
—You have performed the critically acclaimed Caravaggio numerous times. What particularly drew you to this piece?
—Caravaggio is a visually impactful ballet that plays with the elements characteristic of the painter’s work, especially light and shadows that shape dancers’ bodies on stage, creating a plasticity and dramatic beauty.
—Can you tell us about your participation in Jean-Christophe Maillot’s Dov’è la luna and Balanchine’s Apollo?
—In the upcoming season at the Scala in Milan, I will perform in a Maillot ballet, a choreographer I have never worked with before, and also in Balanchine’s Apollo, which I first danced at age 21. However, the initial engagement in Milan will be Boléro by Bejart, premiering in September. I am genuinely excited to continue bringing such masterpieces to the stage.
Expanding “Bolle & Friends” Gala Beyond Italy
—Have you ever considered taking the annual “Roberto Bolle & Friends” galas outside of Italy?
—Yes, certainly. There have been “Bolle & Friends” events outside of Italy. Upcoming ones are on November 6 at Dubai’s Teatro de la Ópera and November 11 at London’s Sadler’s Wells. Recently, we were in Osaka, Japan. Over the years, we have visited numerous cities, from New York to Shanghai and Beijing. However, for many years now, it has been in Italy where, thanks to my popularity, we have managed to present the show in venues like the Arena di Verona or the Terme di Caracalla in Rome.
Collaboration with Isaac Hernández for Despertares
—How did the collaboration with Isaac Hernández for his participation in the upcoming Despertares gala come about?
—I have known Isaac for many years. He even danced in a “Bolle & Friends” tour in China (2018). Over the years, we have crossed paths on stages worldwide, especially in Japan. He is a ballerino with great technique and charisma. I am thrilled to see what he’s doing to expand ballet audiences in Mexico.
Bolle’s Expectations for His Mexico Debut
—What are your expectations for your Mexico debut? Do you have any references to Mexican culture, art, gastronomy, or other aspects?
—I visited Mexico on vacation almost 20 years ago and fell in love with the country instantly. It has a warmth, energy, and culture that make you feel good and touch your soul. I can’t wait to dance in Mexico; it will be a great celebration.
Potential Film About Bolle’s Life and Career
—Have you ever thought about a film depicting your life and career?
—I’ve thought more about a documentary than a film. I’ve had this idea for several years, also because I believe my trajectory can inspire younger generations. We’ll see if it can be realized in the future. For now, I am more present on television, where for the past 8 years I have brought dance to a prime-time slot with a two-hour program.
The Role of Masculine Dance Today
—Although there is a long tradition of great male figures in dance history, is it true that the female figure often serves as the center of grand ballets? What is the role of masculine dance today?
—Today, roles are undoubtedly more equitable. With Nureyev and later Baryshnikov, the male dancer’s role has gained increasing space and importance in the world of ballet. Now, there are many roles that highlight masculine strength and technique. The dancer is no longer just a partner but also occupies leading roles, being the protagonist in all aspects.
Bolle’s Favorite Ballet and Choreographers
—What is your favorite ballet of all time?
—I love ballets with rich, nuanced characters to interpret. I enjoy being moved and digging into my soul to discover and express something different every time. That’s why, the Onegin role I recently performed at London’s Royal Opera House is one of my favorites. Just like Des Grieux in Manon and Armand in La Dama de las Camelias.
—Who are your favorite choreographers and why?
—The choreographers I have worked with who most inspired me and remained in my heart are Forsythe, Kylian, Neumeier, and Petit. Four ballet geniuses who revolutionized the way we dance and gifted us all with absolute masterpieces.
Advice to His 7-Year-Old Self
—If you could talk to yourself at age 7, what would you tell that child who didn’t know his future?
—I would tell him to enjoy every moment of this wonderful journey as much as possible. And not to forget to carry a little bit of the purity and carefreeness that reside in every child’s soul.
(We thank Guadalupe Meza Servin for her kind assistance in translating this interview.)
