Beauty of a Ballet from Ukraine 

In a strange situation for an often ballet-starved town, the Arlington Theatre is also hosting a prime example of the art form this week – for the first time since the local Festival Ballet’s annual performances of The Nutcracker last December – as the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents Sleeping Beauty on May 13. The enchanting tale of Princess Aurora – cursed to a century-long slumber by the evil fairy Carabosse until awakened by a handsome prince – features lavish sets, hand-painted scenery, exquisitely designed costumes and, of course, Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. A cast of world-class dancers unveil their artistry in the original and revised choreography by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov from the late 1800s. State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine’s production of this classical ballet masterpiece is family-friendly and suitable for ages 3 and up. 

You can also enjoy ballet on screen when on Thursday, May 8, SBIFF shows the first two episodes of Étoile. The new Amazon Prime comedy-drama concerns the dancers and artistic staff of two world-renowned ballet companies who embark on an ambitious gambit to save their storied institutions by swapping their most talented stars. A Q&A with the actors Luke Kirby and Gideon Glick follows the screening at the Riviera Theatre. 

More ballet happenings here!