When arriving at the theatre for the show you have to go through metal detectors and have your bag searched ! After moving through the chandeleir and marble foyer, it was finally time to take my seat right behind the orchestra pit eagerly awaiting the curtain to rise. The theatre was packed. It was their final performance for the season and tickets had sold out within 30 mins of going on sale.

The orchestra began in larger than life fashion and the curtain opened to reveal 'Krassus' and his cronies in warrior stature. The grandeur of the stage set was overwhelming and the element of precision reigned furthermore with the display of technical expertise.

As Act 1 drew to a close it was clear to me that I was immersed in Russian tradition. This ballet is a gem of national culture. I had goosebumps.

My only disappointment lay with wanting more emotion from the characters. 'Phrygia' and 'Spartacus' were lacking intensity in their expression and 'Krassus' maintained a startled look on his face the entire performance through ! As for 'Aegina' .... well more on this God gifted work of art to follow.

During intermission I discovered that when one attends the Bolshoi Ballet, one delights on caviar and sips on champagne between acts. High end labels, Veuve and Moet are the only options on offer. The Bolshoi even have their own chocolate !

The bells rang and I quickly took my seat in anticipation of Act 2. I was NOT disappointed. The male allegro section executed inhuman fortitude and unbelievable height right before my eyes ! 'Spartacus', Yegor Khromushin soared with ease and with such a light quality to the landings. It was a textbook demonstration of 'ballon'.
'Phrygia', Anna Antonicheva's extension and control were also textbook with her devellopes reaching all the way to her head !Act 2 left me utterly elated. I was buzzing.

Act 3, 'Aegina', Yekaterina Krysanova had a second monolgue, (solo). She was mesmerizing. You know when you see a star in action. She was born to be a prima ballerina, front and center and entertain audiences the world over. She was exquisite and performed with expression from the tips of her fingers to the tips of her toes. She exuded such fluidity of movement, it was like watching water. She was hypnotic.

'Spartacus' and 'Phrygia' embraced in a loving and dramatic pas de deux with gorgeous lines, created by the genious producer, choreographer Yuri Grogorovich.

The finale of the performance, a dramatic crucifixion and it was over. The theatre rose to their feet shouting "Bravo" and rushing to the front for a photo opportunity of these amazing dancers as they took their bows.

The ballet, 'SPARTACUS' is a magnificent creation. The combination of the timeless choreography, the powerful and moving score by Aram Khachaturyan, the simple but oh so effective lighting on the grandious stage set all set the tone. But who can look past the sheer brilliance of the best ballet company in the world.

Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Modern, Broadway, Ballroom, Teacher, Enthusiast, Parent, Retailer, Studio, Competitions & Conventions, Performance, Summer Study (all tags)