The opening performances have already set the tone. On 15 November, today, the Bolshoi presented Schéhérazade with the luminous Anna Nikulina, who recently enjoyed a resounding triumph in Aurora , today another triumph in The Firebird. Conducted by none other than Valery Gergiev, the performance was a true event, marrying dramatic orchestral power with the sensuality and opulence of Fokine’s iconic choreography. Evenings such as these confirm the Bolshoi as a house of extraordinary talent and artistic depth.
Tomorrow, on 16 November, the theatre presents two performances of this triple bill — one at 12:00 and one at 18:00 — each with meticulously assembled casts featuring both celebrated stars and radiant rising artists.
🌟 SCHÉHÉRAZADE – Sensuality and Oriental Splendor
Based on tales from The Arabian Nights, Schéhérazade is one of Fokine’s most evocative creations. With Rimsky-Korsakov’s richly colored score and Léon Bakst’s legendary original designs, the ballet unfolds in an atmosphere of intense drama, seduction, and emotional turmoil.
⭐ 16 November – Evening Performance (18:00)
A cast full of expressive power and dramatic presence:
Odalisques:
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Elizaveta Chertikhina
⭐ 16 November – Midday Performance (12:00)
A breathtaking cast led by two of the Bolshoi’s most adored stars:
🔥 THE FIREBIRD – Magic, Mystery, and Myth
Stravinsky’s The Firebird remains one of Fokine’s greatest triumphs — a ballet steeped in fantasy and Slavic mythology. With its vibrant score and striking imagery, it offers unforgettable roles for dramatic ballerinas and hero-princes.
Already performed:
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14 November — Elizaveta Kokoreva, the young and fabulous star of the company.
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15 November — Anna Nikulina, a beloved Bolshoi principal, with Valery Gergiev conducting
Both performances reaffirmed the timeless allure of this work and highlighted the depth of talent within the company.
⭐ 16 November – Midday Performance (12:00)
⭐ 16 November – Evening Performance (18:00)
🎭 PETROUCHKA – Tragedy in the Fairground
Fokine’s Petrouchka is a powerful blend of pathos and folklore, following the heartbreaking tale of a puppet with a human soul. It requires dancers capable of deep dramatic engagement and expressive sensitivity.
On 14 November, the role of Petrouchka was interpreted by the great Vladislav Lantratov, partnered by Maria Vinogradova — a pairing that offered tremendous emotional impact and artistic unity.
On 15 November, Alexei Putintsev stepped into the role, dancing with Anastasia Stashkevich and Anton Savichev. Putintsev’s success was overwhelming. After his brilliant Basilio in Don Quixote on 29 October, with Anastasia Smirnova, they danced so wonderfully . He partnered fantastically Anastasia Smirnova, that performance of 29th october will be memorable, many described as one of the finest Basilios in the world, not only in Moscow and Smirnova's Kitri was sensational . Today He got another triumph with his performance as Petrouchka conducted by Valery Gergiev . Critics alike now speak of him as the new star of the Bolshoi. His charisma, flawless technique, and dramatic instinct make him a dancer to follow very closely. We look forward to see him in Swan Lake or Sleeping Beauty, La Bayadère and of course, again as Basilio.
⭐ 16 November – Midday Performance (12:00)
A beautiful performance featuring two gifted young artists:
⭐ 16 November – Evening Performance (18:00)
To close this extraordinary day:
✨ A Weekend to Remember at the Bolshoi Ballet
This succession of masterpieces by Michel Fokine, brought to life by casts of exceptional calibre, confirms yet again the vitality and brilliance of the Bolshoi Ballet. From the exotic passion of Schéhérazade, to the mythical radiance of The Firebird, and the poetic tragedy of Petrouchka, this weekend’s performances promise emotion, artistry, and unforgettable theatrical magic.
A true celebration of dance — and a gift for every ballet lover.
