BALLET RUSSES  combines classical dance with music and drama to tell the story of the legendary dance company during the early years of the twentieth century; of the tumultuous love affair between impresario Diaghilev and the company's famous male dancer Nijinski--and his ultimate betrayal. Other dance luminaries included in the cast are prima ballerinas Karsavina and Thessinska, as well as the ballet apprentice, Romola, whose designs on Nijinski cause discord in the company. Rounding out the cast is manager/secretary, Serge, Baron de Gunzburg, the company's benefactor, choreographer Fokine and the composer, Stravinski; the premiere of his pagan, dissonant ballet, "Rite of Spring"--which shocked the audience and caused a riot--is portrayed at the end of Act I.

Category: Music

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