Kristina sparkles in timeless classic
Reporter: Marina Berry
Date published: 17 February 2009
Swan Lake, Opera House Manchester
TCHAIKOVSKY’S timeless classic has thrilled audiences for decades, and last night’s show from the Russian Classical Ballet Theatre was no exception.
Principal ballerina Kristina Terentiev gave a stunning performance which was nothing short of a joy to watch.
Her poise, elegance and unquestionable strength and control were breathtaking and she made a compelling Odette/Odile in one of the most successful and popular ballets.
Alexei Burakov gave an equally impressive performance as evil magician Baron von Rothbart, with his acting ability equalling his dancing skills — again a pleasure to watch.
In a show difficult to fault, the weak link seemed to be Alexei Terentiev’s Prince Siegfried. The husband of Kristina for seven years, the pair dance only with each other after a fairytale romance which saw them meet at ballet school and fall in love.
Granted he continually pushes Kristina to the fore for the praise she truly deserves, but his solo performances are somewhat lacking in imagination and flair when compared to the outstanding ability of Kristina.
With gorgeous costumes, an athletic cast and a production which abounds with energy, it is well worth catching ahead of the company’s three-day run of the ballet “Coppelia” from Thursday.
