Pride in Russia, rhythm and scale — first audiences share their impressions of the premiere run of "Khorovod. The Energy of Unity" at the National Centre RUSSIA

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The musical and choreographic parable "Khorovod. The Energy of Unity" made a vivid and lasting impression on audiences at the National Centre RUSSIA. The first performance of the premiere run was held on 10 November, bringing together more than 600 performers from across the country on one stage to tell a story through music and dance about Russia's cultural diversity, shared values and the sources of strength that connect generations. The event was the culmination of the cultural events held during the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, declared by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

At the heart of the parable are Russia's vitality and the spiritual and cultural bonds that unite its people and inspire them to create and move forward. The production expresses this central idea through the khorovod, a circle dance that symbolises the unity of the people. In the circle, no one comes first or last, and everyone moves in unison. The dance traditions of Russia's peoples blend with contemporary choreography and music, filling the venue with rhythm and energy while highlighting the ties between generations, respect for the past and aspirations for the future. Among the first audience members to share their impressions was Vladimir Moiseyev, an Honoured Artist of Russia, choreographer and expert in folk and classical dance. He thanked the organisers, the directing team and the entire creative team, noting that a striking, memorable performance on this scale takes a tremendous amount of work by a large team.

"What makes the khorovod unique as a symbol of unity is that all peoples come together in friendship and support one another. A people united like that cannot be defeated. Every people has its own distinctive energy, which comes through in its culture, traditions and rituals. This production takes us on a sweeping, engaging and skilfully crafted journey through the history of the country and its people, carried along by its rhythm. The show is both informative and full of energy," Vladimir Moiseyev emphasised.

The musical and choreographic parable "Khorovod. The Energy of Unity" brought together ensembles and performers at the National Centre RUSSIA from the Republic of Buryatia, the Donetsk People's Republic, the Republic of Karelia, the Kostroma Region, the Irkutsk Region, the Khabarovsk Territory, Moscow, the Republic of Crimea, the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and the regions of the North Caucasus. The programme gave particular prominence to original pieces created by the National Centre RUSSIA especially for the culmination of the "Khorovod" series. Mother Earth narrates the story, which traces the sources of this strength to unconditional maternal love, respect for nature, strong family bonds, and a commitment to preserving historical memory and traditions.

"You know, I got so much energy today! It felt like an evening of travel, as though we'd been all over our country, from Lake Baikal and Altai to the Caucasus and many other regions. It's an extraordinary performance that gives you goosebumps. The costumes, staging, choreography and singing are all superb, and you're captivated from start to finish. It really is the energy of unity, the energy of dance and song. This is our country, and I'm proud to live in Russia," said Tatyana Morozova, a singer, actress and lead singer of the group "Gone with the Wind".

The original piece "In Harmony" offered a striking example of harmony among the country's peoples and between contemporary rhythms and folklore. World beatboxing champion Vakhtang embodied masculine strength, resilience and majesty. The appearance of Saniyat Tlukashaova, a soloist with the State Folk Song Ensemble "Islamey" of the Republic of Adygeya, came as a particular surprise to the audience. She rode onto the stage on horseback, embodying women's strength and love for their Motherland.

"I'm so glad I got to see it with my own eyes. I'd never heard of the khorovod before, and today I learnt what it was. It's a wonderful performance, and I think Russians are a very happy nation. This is the best production I've seen in Russia," said Cansu Tanriverdi, trade attaché at the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in the Russian Federation, who was in the audience.

Another treat for the audience was "Dance of Nature", which combined contemporary choreography, throat singing, the sound of the jaw harp and electronic sound design. The piece featured Anastasia Bobrovka, a virtuoso of throat singing and vocal imitation, and Ildar Gainutdinov, a guest soloist at the Bolshoi Theatre.

The young performers' appearances showed how successive generations of artists carry forward their love for their Motherland and its traditions. Taking to the stage were the "Dobun" Ethnic Ensemble, the Exemplary Crimean Tatar Dance Ensemble "Atesh", the "Domisolka" Children's Musical Theatre and the ART FORCE dance studio. The young artists showed how they learn from those who came before them and carefully preserve their country's cultural traditions while bringing their own dreams, ideas and discoveries to the story. The performances drew an enthusiastic response, especially from younger audience members. Six-year-old Ester Shepeleva shared her impressions. "I loved the whole show, especially the children's performances! My mum and I come to the National Centre RUSSIA all the time, and every time we get to enjoy a new, exciting show."

The finale, "Pereplyas (Dance-Off). Our People Join the Circle", brought all the ensembles together to showcase the best of the artistic traditions of their respective peoples. The production ended with a khorovod in which audience members and performers danced together, a symbol of unity, mutual respect and shared energy.

The premiere performances marking the culmination of the "Khorovod" series are free to attend, as are all other events at the National Centre RUSSIA. Advance registration is required. Performances of the musical and choreographic parable "Khorovod. The Energy of Unity" continue on 11 and 12 November, after which the production will be available to watch online. Follow our website and social media channels for updates!