University at Buffalo - The State University of New York

Swan Lake was inspired by the ancient German legend of Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer's curse. With its melodramatic plot twists, exquisite choreography and Tchaikovsky's magnificent score, this enchanting ballet is among the most revered in the classical canon. It is brought to stage by this leading Russian ballet company with all of the breathtaking virtuosity and stunning costumes that make Swan Lake a delight for the whole family. In 1994, the legendary Bolshoi principal dancer Elena Radchenko was selected by Presidential decree to assume the first permanent artistic directorship of the company. Ms. Radchenko is the founder of the Russian National Ballet Theatre, and she has focused the Company on upholding the grand tradition of the major Russian ballet works and developing new talents throughout Russia, with a repertory of virtually all of the great full works.