description Impressing the Czar Overview
“Impressioning the Czar” is a ballet by George Balanchine set during 1812 Russia. The work portrays a passionate relationship between a countess and an Imperial Guard, drawing on the opulent style of aristocratic society within that era’s ballet tradition. Choreographed with Forsythe and Willems influences, it features complex partnering and costumes reflecting the full-length format. It is primarily for audiences interested in classical ballet and 20th-century dance innovations.
help Impressing the Czar FAQ
Who actually choreographed Impressing the Czar?
Impressing the Czar was choreographed by William Forsythe, not George Balanchine. The full-length work premiered with Ballet Frankfurt in 1988.
Is In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated part of Impressing the Czar?
Yes. In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated is one of the best-known sections connected to Impressing the Czar. Forsythe originally created it for the Paris Opera Ballet in 1987.
Does Impressing the Czar have a normal story?
No. It is a postmodern ballet with episodic sections such as Potemkin's Signature, La Maison de Mezzo Prezzo, and Bongo Bongo Nageela. The title refers to Czar Nicholas II's reportedly cool reaction to Petipa's The Sleeping Beauty.
What kind of music is used in Impressing the Czar?
The score includes music by Thom Willems, Leslie Stuck, Eva Crossman-Hecht, and Ludwig van Beethoven. Forsythe uses the musical contrasts to jump between ballet history, satire, and aggressive contemporary movement.
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