This is a true classic of ballet, and it is always danced best by a company that follows the classical tradition rigorously \u2013 which is what you traditionally get from Russian companies, of course. This production is not from the Moscow State Ballet, despite what the publicity claims; it is however from the Russian State Ballet Mari El, a company based in Mari El republic; established in the early 2000s, the company is known for its commitment to classical ballet technique and has gained a reputation for the quality and accessibility of its performances; so this one should be on the button. Music by Sergei Prokofiev, classic choreography by Konstantin Ivanov \u2013 a former Bolshoi soloist who is the State Ballet Mari El’s creative and administrative director.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"