With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, On Stage at Kingsborough continues its high-quality lineup of entertainment with the State Ballet Theatre of Russia’s unique production of “Romeo & Juliet” on Saturday, February 13.
The two-act, full-length production will be a ballet portrayal of the love story. After a successful performance of “Swan Lake” last year, the company returns to enchant audiences with the timeless tragedy by William Shakespeare.
“They asked if they could come and perform around Valentine’s Day, which is great because it’s a beautiful and romantic production. It’s an expensive day, so it’s nice to have something that is affordable,” said Anna Becker, executive director at On Stage at Kingsborough, who was also thrilled with last year’s production, which she called, “a very well-received and beautiful full production with amazing sets and costumes.”
This production promises to deliver a Broadway-like performance. The State Ballet Theatre of Russia, which was founded by legendary dancer and former principal dancer of the Bolshoi Theatre Ballet Maya Plisetskaya, is now under the direction of award-winning dancer and Moiseyev Dance Company soloist Nikolay Anokhin. The choreographer is the Bolshoi Ballet’s Michael Lavrovsky.
Becker believes the unique method of telling the story through dance will draw a big crowd. “One thing that’s so great about this production — whether you love ballet or are being introduced to it, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great ballet and story,” she said, adding that the show will include 55 of the best Russian ballet dancers. “Everyone knows and loves the romantic tragedy of “Romeo and Juliet. Even if you’re not a Shakespeare fan. I think it’s a wonderful choice.
“Even if you haven’t read it, you know the basic story of the lovers. For the audience to be able to witness great dancers, it makes it that much richer.”
Becker can’t wait to hear audiences’ reactions. “One of things I always look forward to is that the audiences see the other productions and talk to me about what was different,” she said, noting that they’ve already had a strong response in terms of ticket sales. “It’s always nice to hear from them. They are knowledgeable and worldly and I’m excited to hear what they think and what they compare it to.”
On Stage at Kingsborough also expects all different types of attendees. “It’s a wonderful introduction to ballet for younger people who know story of Romeo and Juliet,” she said. “There will be a diverse crowd. Adults bring children 10 and up, families come, couples, a wide range of ages and ethnic groups. There’s no language barrier. Everyone can take something away.”
“Romeo and Juliet” will be performed on Saturday, February 13 at 8 p.m. at On Stage at Kingsborough, 2001 Oriental Blvd. Tickets start at $30. For more information, visit www.onstageatkingsborough.org.
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