If you’re into ballet, the Russian Royal Ballet’s Swan Lake is the one to catch this year. The troupe is bringing their 22nd China tour to Shanghai with a stunning rendition of the classic Tchaikovsky ballet, featuring impressive soloists and breathtaking ensemble work. Expect the full drama of princes, swans, and dark curses brought to life with precision and grace.

Prelude:
Princess Odette is kidnapped by an evil sorcerer and cursed to live as a swan on the lake, only able to return to human form at night.

Act I – Palace:
Prince Siegfried is about to celebrate his coming-of-age. His mother presents him with a bow as a birthday gift and instructs him to choose a bride at the ball. Feeling melancholic, the prince goes hunting in the forest.

Act II – Lakeside:
At the lake, the prince falls in love with the noble and beautiful Odette, who is under a spell by the sorcerer. Only true love can break the curse.

Act III – Palace Ball:
At the ball, the sorcerer arrives with his daughter Odile, the Black Swan. The prince is deceived and pledges his love to Odile. Seeing his betrayal, Odette leaves in despair, and the stage darkens with thunder and lightning.

Act IV – Lakeside:
The prince seeks Odette’s forgiveness at the lake. Unable to break the curse alone, they both jump into the water. A miracle occurs: evil is defeated, and true love triumphs.

Highlights:

• Iconic roles of the White Swan and Black Swan played by the same dancer
• Famous 32 fouettés in the Black Swan pas de deux
• Court dances including Italian, Hungarian, Polish, and Spanish styles
• Ballet considered a pinnacle for dancers in technique, stamina, and artistry

Notable Performers:

• Gediminas Taranda – Founder, choreographer, director
• Kseniia Pukhlovskaia – Principal dancer
• Brel Lev Eduardovich – Principal dancer