The Pique Dame (ballet)

"The Pique Dame," or "The Queen of Spades," is a ballet based on a short story by Russian author Alexander Pushkin. It tells the story of Hermann, a young officer obsessed with learning the secret to winning at cards. His obsession leads him to destructively pursue the enigmatic Lise, who is in love with another man, and her mysterious grandmother, a former card shark. The ballet explores themes of greed, obsession, and the supernatural, ultimately revealing the consequences of Hermann’s relentless desire for fortune. Known for its dramatic score and intense choreography, it highlights the darker aspects of human nature.