2024 marks the 75th anniversary of Russia (previously USSR) and China diplomatic relations, with both countries having played an enormous part in my life over the past 30 plus years, in both business, culture, and romance. To mark the occasion, the Guangzhou Acrobatic Troupe of China have developed a new form of ‘acrobatic ballet’ loosely based upon the Swan Lake ballet, but with additional acrobatic routines as part of the performance. It was staged at the Mariinsky Theatre in St.Petersburg, and I was lucky enough to attend. Part an homage to Tchaikovsky, part Chinese Cirque du Soleil, and part just mad, it’s quite the spectacle and an entertaining blend of East and West. I wonder what Mao and Stalin would have made of it. On the other hand, it could also be the lode stone for introducing new technical dynamics into contemporary ballet. There may be a need to revolutionise, at least in part, productions that employ slightly differently trained dancers – or gymnasts and acrobats – into a coherent new form of dance. The explosive entrances of Asian dancers such as Kimin Kim (not part of Swan) into the world of modern ballet suggests that there may be a dance revolution taking place under our very eyes. “Swan” is touring, so if you get the chance, do go. Here are some of the images.
Here is official teaser :
And this was the curtain call: