16 May 2023
Boris Eifman to Tell About the Life of Paul I in the Ballet "Russian Hamlet"
Emperor Paul I is a mysterious and tragic figure in our history at the same time. Boris Eifman was interested in the period when Paul was the heir to the throne. In the choreographer's interpretation, Paul is a fragile, contradictory person with a vulnerable soul. He is forced to live in a world ruled by lies, violence and hypocrisy. An educated and intelligent man, he languished for many years in anticipation of when his talents would be able to serve his Motherland, but he never waited for this.
The ballet premiered in 1999. Over the past 25 years, it has been seen in Europe, the USA, and Asia.
13 years after its creation, the ballet was excluded from the repertoire, but the author returned to it again during the revival of his most famous works. Eifman decided to leave the plot intact, but made changes to the choreographic score.
For the first time, the viewer sees Pavel as a little boy who watches the murder of his father, Peter III. Then we see him as a young man: the royal mother has no time for her son, the stuffy atmosphere in the palace oppresses him, intrigues and flattery are everywhere. Pavel's young wife falls victim to her mother's intrigues - he is alone again.
The heir increasingly immerses himself in a world of fantasy. He sees the ghost of his murdered father, then he imagines himself a famous commander, then he dreams of killing the Favorite and even his mother.
Gradually, the unfortunate man understands that even receiving the coveted throne will not bring him satisfaction. All that is left for him is fear, loneliness and empty dreams.
The ballet is set to the music of L. Beethoven and G. Mahler.
Tickets for the ballet «Russian Hamlet» can be quickly and conveniently purchased using online services.
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