The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet has revived The Tenth Wound of Gjergj Elez Alia, with an outstanding debut performance by dancers Kevin Lila, Adela Muçollari, Ervis Koçeku, Anxhelo Muçollari, Lurdi Dodgjini, Ambra Troplini, and Eltion Merja. On its second night, Odeta Dishnica, Dion Gjinika, Elda Logo, and others joined the cast.

This enduring ballet, a masterpiece of Albanian cultural heritage, was created by composer Feim Ibrahimi, writer Ismail Kadare, and choreographer Agro Aliaj. Drawing from the Epic of the Kreshniks, it depicts Gjergj’s heroic journey, his deep love for his homeland, and his ultimate sacrifices.

The story follows Gjergj Elez Alia, who, after suffering nine grievous wounds in battle, spends nine years in recovery, only to face a final, decisive duel with the menacing Bajloz. Though he emerges victorious, Gjergj ultimately succumbs to the fateful tenth wound.

First staged on March 30, 1986, with conductor Rifat Teqja, the ballet starred Ilir Kerni, Llaqi Nako, and Arben Kuçaj as Gjergj, and Albana Sulejmani and Julika Islami as Dardina. Revered as one of Albania’s finest ballets, this work has graced the stage countless times since its premiere.

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