On May 2nd and 3rd of 2026, the Loudon Ballet Performing Arts Company (LBPAC) in Leesburg, Virginia put on their own original ballet inspired by The Legend of Zelda game series!
The idea for the ballet came from the company’s Artistic Director, Emily Maroni, who grew up alongside the franchise. She realized that the game’s soundtrack had the perfect sound and vibe for a ballet and the idea was brought to life.
Interestingly enough in an interview with her local paper, Maroni admitted that she had to create a Zelda bible in order to explain the story and its various aspects to the troupe members who didn’t know much or anything about the series at all. When speaking with the team behind the scenes, they shared that the ballet took inspiration from a number of different Zelda games, but the main inspiration was from the golden child of the games, Ocarina of Time.
The description on their website reads, “In the peaceful kingdom of Highvale, a sacred crest embodying wisdom, courage, and power has been divided among three bearers: Princess Zelda, the brave knight Link, and the fearsome Demon King. When dark forces shatter a joyful village celebration, Link is thrust into a heroic quest guided by a mysterious fairy.
Travel through enchanted forests, ancient temples, and breathtaking battles in search of a legendary sword said to seal away the darkness. Along the way, magical companions, daunting trials, and electrifying encounters shape Zelda & Link’s destiny. As the Demon King’s strength rises and Highvale’s future hangs in the balance, Zelda and Link must unite to restore harmony and bring light back to their realm.
Filled with vibrant choreography, dazzling costumes, and signature LBPAC magic, Zelda invites audiences of all ages into a world of heroism, friendship, and hope. Join Zelda, Link, and their allies as they prove that even the smallest act of courage can shine brighter than darkness.”
The cast of 60 includes both young and current age Link and Zelda, the ever-so-elusive Demon King, the Great Fairy and a trope of fairies, the King of Highvale, forest dwellers clearly inspired by Koroks, a certain fairy who is constantly wanting Link’s attention, and even the Gerudo!
The response from the general public and the fans has been overwhelmingly positive, with one user on their Instagram saying the ballet was “the most innovative and mesmerizing adaptation of The Legend of Zelda I could have ever hoped for. I have been a life long fan of the series, and this ballet performance was a masterpiece of an encapsulation. As someone with an obsession with LoZ, I instantly recognized and greatly appreciated all the motifs from the games and the music selection as well…”
Currently, LBPAC is in the process of digitizing the ballet so that fans who were unable to see the performance live can view and enjoy it. We’ll be sure to share an update as soon as the recording becomes available for purchase.
You can check out the LBPAC Instagram page here for some behind the scenes pictures, snippets of the various dances and even a look at the costume concept art to the final costumes on stage!
