Classical ballet is brought to the big screen thanks to the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia and Sharmill Films. The second of four live performances for the 2011-2012 season sees The Sleeping Beauty on the screens of selected cinemas this February.
Playing in the newly restored Bolshoi Theatre of Russia, the classic Brothers Grimm story is retold with the orchestral flavourings of Tchaikovsky with a new choreographic version by Yuri Grigorovich.
David Hallberg stars in the ballet and recently made history by being the first American born performer to be hired permanently by the Moscow company. Recently Hallberg was interviewed on US television show The Colbert Report whereupon host Stephen Colbert inquisitively (and satirically) questioned Hallberg about defecting to the Soviets. Other primary performers make their own mark with Svetlana Zakharova plays Princess Aurora with proper elegance and grace.
The historic theatre is a beautiful piece of grand and opulent architecture, with the detailed restoration casting a feast for the eyes. Lavish and extravagant costumes and set design add a je ne sais quoi. For ballet fans, this production and performance is a must see. For arts lovers alike, a rare opportunity into the Bolshoi and ballet company is definitely worth an exploratory look.
Sleeping Beauty will be playing selected cinemas on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 February. For more details, click here.
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