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Kirov Ballet

Contrasts: ‘Serenade’, ‘The Rite of Spring’, ‘Etudes’

4th August 2003
London, Covent Garden

by Phil Bremner


'Serenade' reviews

Kirov 'Rite of Spring' reviews

all 'Rite of Spring' reviews

'Etudes' reviews

Fadeyev in reviews

Zakharova in reviews

recent Kirov reviews

more Phil Bremner reviews




Having seen each of the Kirov's productions at least twice, there have been times when, apart from some magical moments, i have wondered - "what's all the fuss about ?". Last nights 'Contrasts' performance answered the question ! i thought that it was an absolute masterclass from start to finish and the best balanced triple bill i have seen for years.

SERENADE
Waltz - Natalia Sologub / Daniil Korsuntsev
Russian - Irina Golub
Dark Angel - Sofia Gumerova
Elegy - Viktor Baranov

A brilliantly executed and at times achingly beautiful performance - an absolute joy to watch. The corp danced in perfect harmony as if moved by a soft breeze. Irina Golub again gave a stand-out performance .

THE RITE OF SPRING
The Chosen One - Natalia Solugub

I have never been a fan of this piece and had made a mental note to avoid seeing it again, however, last nights performance was so powerful that i have totally changed my mind. I found the ebb and flow of the dancers movements hypnotic. The dark uneasy feeling that the orchestra and dancers created, conjured up the same clawing discomfort that 'The Judas Tree' always evokes for me. Having seen the afternoons rehearsal as well i am still amazed how the dancers can remember the intricate movements that at times seem devoid of any symmetry.

ETUDES

This was danced from start to finish with such vigour and joy that it appeared completely spontaneous. Fadeyev and Sarafanov were excellent and Svetlana Zakharova was simply amazing as she effortlessly switched from sheer power to feather light sylph. But once again it was the corp who really shone - it is simply staggering how they are able to remember so many diverse and complex roles, especially when danced back to back in a three week period !

A perfect end to a an evening which comprehensively answered the question 'what's all the fuss about ?"



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