The Sleeping Beauty vs La Bayadère

Often called the 'encyclopedia of classical ballet,' The Sleeping Beauty is a grand, opulent production that showcases the full spectrum of the Imperial Russian style. With Tchaikovsky's magnificent score and Petipa's intricate choreography, it is a test of stamina and precision for the entire company. The role of Princess Aurora is notoriously difficult, requiring a dancer to maintain poise and t...

La Bayadère is a grand, exotic epic that features some of the most challenging and beautiful choreography in the classical canon. The 'Kingdom of the Shades' scene is legendary, requiring 32 dancers to perform synchronized, repetitive movements that create a hypnotic, ethereal effect. The story of the temple dancer Nikiya and her tragic love for the warrior Solor is filled with betrayal, opium-ind...