DeKALB |Pirates have landed ballet-style at the O’Connell Theatre.

With sword fighting, belly dancing and a love story, the School of Theatre and Dance brings the 150-year-old production of “Le Corsaire” to NIU for the first time.

Under the direction of Randall Newsom, the ballet, based on Lord Byron’s poem “The Giaour,” is at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday.

“How often do you see a ballet with pirates and sword fights? This ballet is fun and sure to not put you to sleep,” said Micah Moch, senior NIU dance performer, who plays bodyguard Ali.

With a new rendition of Marius Petipa’s original choreography and pieces of Adam Adolphe’s original music, the dancers depict the adventure of Conrad the pirate. Conrad is fighting for his love, Medora, a slave girl who must be freed from her new owner.

As the dancers hit the stage, their extravagant costumes, designed by Melanie Baumgartner, captivate the eye.

“All the dancers have been working so hard,” said stage director Heather Stayton.

The dancing of leads James Slevko (Conrad) and Yu Suzuki (Medora) compliment the others’ talent.

“The most anticipated scene is the last scene in the second act where Medora and Conrad lead a pas de deux [dance of two] mirroring Marius Petipa’s original choreography,” Moch said.

IF YOU GO:

What: “Le Corsaire” at the O’Connell Theatre

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets are $14, $10 for seniors and $7 for students.

For information or ticket reservations, call the School of Dance box office at 815-753-1600.

A children’s matinee performance will be at 10 a.m. Thursday. Tickets for that performance are only available by calling 815-753-1337.

SOURCE: NIU School of Theatre and Dance press release