The Ukrainian National Opera's production of The Snow Queen has captivated audiences at the historic Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, delivering both art and resilience against the backdrop of current geopolitical strife.
Since its inception, the ballet, staged from December 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, showcases the company's commitment to artistic independence, distancing itself from past Russian influences, especially following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
A reinterpretation of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved tale, Aniko Rekhviashvili's choreography shines through the vibrant performance. "La Reine des Neiges est un spectacle féérique pour toute la famille, destiné à devenir un classique idéal pour les fêtes de fin d'année," said arts reporter Stéphanie Nègre, highlighting the ballet's enchanting nature.
The narrative, which follows young Gerda on her quest to rescue her friend Kai from the sinister clutches of the Snow Queen, is accompanied by classical music arrangements from renowned composers such as Edvard Grieg and Jules Massenet. This thoughtful selection fortifies the ballet's storytelling and emotional depth.
The cast features standout performances from Iryna Borysova, who takes on the titular role, embodying the chilling elegance of the Snow Queen. Meanwhile, Yaroslav Tkachuk's portrayal of Kai captivates with laudable physicality, and Tetiana Lozova as Gerda evokes both innocence and courage throughout the production's two acts.
The structure of the performance allows for varied emotional expressions, ranging from the lighthearted joys of youth and friendship to the darker themes of danger and isolation. Through her pursuit of Kai, Gerda navigates diverse settings—from snow-covered landscapes to fantastical ballrooms—which are accentuated by vibrant choreography and engaging visual design.
On stage, scenes shift quickly, maintaining the audience's engagement as Gerda encounters various whimsical characters along her way, cleverly blending pantomime with dance. It’s this blend, coupled with the absence of Russian music, which enhances the ballet's dedication to showcasing Ukrainian culture.
Reflecting on the atmosphere surrounding the performance, the urgency and enthusiasm of the dancers mirror the very sentiments of the Ukrainian nation, portrayed as they continue to persevere and showcase their culture—all within the sacred walls of one of France's most prestigious venues.
"Comme un phare dans la nuit ukrainienne, ce ballet brille d’une clarté pleine de promesses," expressed one commentator, emphasizing the hope embodied in this performance.
The artistic endeavor is not only about the dance; it is also about the broader cultural statement it signifies. With each act, the ballet asserts Ukraine's place on the international stage, carefully orchestrated under the leadership of the Prométhée orchestra, directed by Ukrainian maestro Sergii Golubnychyi.
While some traditional elements of ballet remain, the production emphasizes Gerda's evolution, showcasing her growth from innocence to resilience. Throughout the encounters with whimsical creatures of the night, her relationship with Kai evolves, culminating in moments of both tension and reunion.
What makes this ballet particularly noteworthy is how it reinvents roles often reserved for male characters, allowing Gerda to emerge as the protagonist and rightful hero of her adventure. The collaboration among the dancers breathes life and energy, propelling the narrative forward.
Throughout its engaging nights at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, The Snow Queen has proven to be more than just seasonal entertainment; it serves as both a vivid cultural representation and a symbol of resilience and hope for the people of Ukraine.
The ballet not only celebrates the artistry of the performers but also the enduring spirit of nationality and identity found within the richness of Ukrainian folklore.
Fans of ballet and newcomers alike will find something to cherish within this magical production. It's set to leave its audiences with both memories and emotions, reiterative of the experiences shared by all as they navigate life's adventures, just as Gerda does.