In a quest to explore diverse cultures and celebrate world art, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Swan lake comes to Delhi. A report by SHAlINI SAKSENA

Swan lake, — whether a movie (1981) or a musical — this timeless classic has had people under its spell for decades. At its first world premiere in Moscow back in 1877 at Bolshoi Theatre, it failed to create a buzz. But since then, this musical has enthralled audiences worldwide with its brilliance.

But how the story came to be, has many versions. Some say that it finds its origin in the story by German author Johann Karl August Musäus, The Stolen Veil. Then there is the  Russian folktale — The White Duck, also bears a resemblance with the story of the ballet, and may have been another possible source. But probably the most plausible theory is that Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky took a lot of interest in the life of Bavarian King ludwig II, whose life was marked by the sign of swan. Perhaps his life inspired Tchaikovsky to create Prince Siegfried and swan princess Odette — a love story that has magic, tragedy and romance.

Now, this story comes to Delhi on September 22, 2017 by Royal Russian Ballet Theatre which has Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Don Quixote and Romeo and Juliette as some of its popular ballets.

“Swan lake, any day is Tchaikovsky’s baby. The ballet was first staged in the year 1877 at Bolshoi Theatre. In 1895 it was re-worked by Marius Petipa and lev Ivanov and was well received by the audience. Ever since the ballet remains a project in progress, a challenge to all choreographers and ballet dancers to explore the depth of Tchaikovsky’s composition,” Anatoliy Kazatsky, a director with Royal Russian Ballet Theatre, says.

There are several theories related to the number of acts and how they came to be. According to Kazatsky, after 1895, there are four acts. But to begin with, there were  three. The second act was added by Petipa and Ivanov. And today, there are four acts with three breaks.

“The classical version essentially are the same. However, there has been trend to try lot of thematically inspired ballet versions without claiming these as the original,” Kazatsky tells you.

The reason why Swan lake’s popularity has increased is due to the music. The end effect is symphonic with tremendous repeat value. Another reason for its universal appeal is its multicultural musical and dancing form blends. The music composition keeps challenging choreographers and principal dancers to innovate more and more.

Kazatsky tells you that since India has an ancient and rich tradition of dance and music, it was natural to come with Sawn lake and perform. “We are very optimistic that the Indians will appreciate such classical art forms. In essence there is no change from the classical format,” he says.

While all choreographers and directors try their blends without compromising the basic essence, Kazatsky is optimistic that they will be able to satisfy and gratify the Indian audience and look forward to entertain them to the fullest. “Once we do this show successfully, we look forward  to other joint productions with Navrasa Duende and travel across India with our shows,” Kazatsky says.

Dinesh Singh, founder Navrasa Duende which has collaborated with Royal Russian Ballet Theatre for two more projects — Romeo and Juliette and Sleeping Beauty tells you that since and average India has become a more seasoned traveler, he is more open to world arts and when we talk about world art, Swan lake finds a mention.

“Whenever one thinks of ballet, one thinks of Russia. Though it traveled from Italy and moved to France before it came to Russia, we always associate ballet with Russia and that too Swan lake. It started with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, a music composer and had an international exposure when it came to music. When he tried his hand at ballet, he came up with a concept that had international elements that had ethnic blend as well. Usually, in a ballet, one thinks of dance and then music. But his Swan lake had musical overtures followed by dance,” Singh tells you.

To bring this musical ballet to India comes with its share of challenges. Getting various clearances, which come at the last moment, and licenses are only a part of it. “There are apprehensions which will always be there when you are part world art and want to celebrate it — whether people will appreciate it, Singh says adding that there are five shows in three days to be staged at Siri Fort.

The reason why it is not Bolshoi Theatre is simple. This theatre is largely funded by the Russian Government and they generally not move out of Moscow. The performances that they do give overseas are part of diplomatic exchange programme. They are usually not available for commercial collaborations.

The collaboration is not just limited to musical  alone. Plans are afoot to bring shows that will have elements of ballet and theatre in play format.