The Nutcracker — forever: the main New Year’s ballet with multimedia technologies
The
premiere of the new version of the ballet "The Nutcracker" performed
by artists of the Bolshoi Theatre is being shown at the National Centre RUSSIA.
Over two days, almost five thousand spectators have seen the performance.
The feature
of the production is an innovative approach to designing the stage space.
Instead of static scenery, there are multimedia elements. Animation and visual
effects help immerse the audience in a magical atmosphere.
This new
interpretation of the classic has been appreciated not only by audiences of all
ages but also by honorary guests of the presentation — famous artists, cultural
experts, and public figures.
"This
major event in historical memory takes us back to December 18, 1892, when the
first premiere of the ballet 'The Nutcracker' took place at the Mariinsky
Theatre. That evening, something extraordinary occurred: the world saw a ballet
without which it cannot do anymore. Its genre was defined by the word
'fantasy'. And fantasy is magic, without which no person can live. Therefore,
'The Nutcracker' is a kind of matrix, which every new generation is called to
fill with new files, to sketch a new attitude, to express a new view. Thus,
every era has its own 'The Nutcracker'," noted Sergei Korobkov, Merited
Artist of the Russian Federation, Editor-in-Chief of the magazine "The
Bolshoi Theatre", and theatre critic.
The creators
of the production tried to preserve both the artistic meaning of Hoffmann's
work and the traditions of classical Russian ballet.
"'The
Nutcracker' is certainly a Christmas New Year's tale. But, I confess, I am
overwhelmed with emotions over the fact that this tale is perfectly matched by
the National Centre RUSSIA and its grand concert hall. I think this is no
accident, as this production is also a very bright, very high-artistic work. A
true achievement. 'The Nutcracker' forever!" said ballet critic, and
"PRO Dance" magazine observer Alexander Maksov.
The role of
the prince was performed by the premier of the Bolshoi Theatre, winner of
international competitions, and holder of the "Soul of Dance" award
Igor Tsvirko. The role of Marie was played by the leading soloist of the
theatre, and laureate of the International Ballet Prize Dance Open Kristina
Kretova.
"It's
hard to get into the Bolshoi Theatre, but we, as its representatives, decided
to give the audience such a celebration. And for us, of course, it is a great
honor to perform here at the National Centre RUSSIA, on a wonderful stage for
so many young and not only young viewers. It is our great pride that such a
National Centre has been created, where many different performances,
expositions, and other cultural events will take place. It is great that ballet
is gaining such mass appeal, and I am sure that its showing at the National
Centre will become an annual good tradition," said Igor Tsvirko.
"The
role of Marie is probably one of the most challenging for a ballerina, but at
the same time one of the most touching. Therefore, of course, every time I step
on stage, I do so with great trepidation and anticipation to delight a new
audience. Many thanks to the National Centre RUSSIA for making every effort to
ensure that we, the artists, are comfortable performing," added Kristina
Kretova.
The new
production and work of the National Centre RUSSIA were highly praised by Deputy
Chairman of the Federation Council Konstantin Kosachev:
"I am very glad that there is yet another interpretation of 'The Nutcracker', now in a more modern performance. This production will long remain in the hearts and souls of the audience; it meets the most sincere expectations of a New Year's miracle. And I would like to thank the National Centre RUSSIA for supporting this unique project, which allows more people to see the legendary ballet. After all, in the lead-up to the New Year, getting tickets to 'The Nutcracker' is often not easy."
The festive
premiere was attended by the choreographer and teacher, soloist of the Bolshoi
Theatre ballet from 1979 to 1997, Merited Artist of the RSFSR, People's Artist
of Russia Alexander Vetrov:
"When
we say 'New Year', we immediately think of: the New Year tree, Ded Moroz, and,
of course, the ballet 'The Nutcracker'. Therefore, I congratulate both the
children and their parents who came to this wonderful performance. It is
performed by amazing artists, particularly the ballet artists of the Bolshoi
Theatre. Special thanks to the National Centre RUSSIA, which organized all
this. The performance is simply remarkable — in multimedia decorations. You
won't see anything like it anywhere else."
For the
young spectators of "The Nutcracker," New Year's master classes and
gifts were organized, prepared in partnership with the Movement of the First
and Gazprombank.
The
National Centre RUSSIA was established by order of the President of the Russian
Federation, Vladimir Putin, to preserve the legacy of the International RUSSIA
EXPO and to showcase the achievements of the country and its citizens on a
permanent basis. Federal government agencies, state companies, corporations,
and regions take part in the Centre’s work.
The
National Centre RUSSIA is located at 14 Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment, Moscow.
The Centre is open from 10:00 to 20:00 every day except Monday.
Four workshops will be held in the foyer of Pavilion No. 3.
More than 250 works from six countries convey profound messages to visitors of the exposition.
The buffet at the National Centre RUSSIA is located next to the information desk.
