Two versions of Aram Khachaturyan’s ballet about servile revolt led by Spartacus are to be performed at NOVAT till the end of the season. Despite the common music material, Yury Grigorovich’s epic heroic production with deep dramatic and psychological tense differs a lot from Georgy Kovtun’s performance describing more the circumstances of that age and the ways of the Roman Empire. This is especially remarkable when you start to compare the main female characters of the two “Spartacus” renditions.
“Fidelity and self-sacrifice keep being the main features of character of Spartacus’s love both in Grigorovich’s and Kovtun’s versions – tells Kseniya Zakharova, soloist of NOVAT’s ballet company, performing Phrygia in both productions – but they have their differences, perhaps not so remarkable for the audience”.
The young ballerina is convinced her heroine in Grigorovich’s rendition has a very deep personality. “Being all tender and fragile this woman has a strong backbone, she’s ready to fight to the end – stated Kseniya Zakharova – I had to work hard for that part, since Grigorovich’s version is well-known and loved around the world, one would notice any possible flaw. However, Kovtun’s version is full of different balance-based spectacular moments, it leaves you more freedom”.
Anna Germizeeve, playing the seductive Aegina in both productions, is convinced that Yury Grigorovich’s ballet is a high quality classic, while Kovtun’s version is filled with a number of complicated stunts. “For me personally, Kovtun’s Aegina and Grigorovich’s Aegima are completely different characters, not only in style, but also in temper – states the ballerina – Aegina of Grigorovich’s rendition feels more royal and aristocratic then in Kovtun’s performance where she is presented more laid-back”.
The NOVAT soloist stressed out that she is more familiar with roles like Juliette and Giselle. “But sometimes directors see me as a femme fatale – tells Anna Germizeeva – tough I don’t have much in common with Aegina, I have to look inside and create a credible impression”.
The next “Spartacus” performances in Georgy Kovtun’s rendition will be staged 13, 14, 15 June.
The legendary ballet performance by Yury Grigorovich will be shown at NOVAT on 3rd and 4th July.
Tickets are available on the website and at the theatre box office.