A very good and powerful production. The camera work can be distant and get a little too static, and the woodwind has a few ragged spots, but there is a lot of reasons for anybody to stick with it. The costumes, sets and lighting are done in a way that is both atmospheric and attractive, while on the most part the orchestral playing is nuanced and taut as well as beautifully shaped and the conducting brings out the passion of the music very well and doesn't forget to accommodate the dancers. Prokoviev's music is very cleverly orchestrated, with moments of breathtaking beauty and overwhelming power, the sound quality doesn't undermine the colour of the score though more depth would be welcome. Mikhail Grigorovich's choreography is inventive and disciplined, with strong sense of movement and line. He is not as musical as George Balanchine or as distinctively creative or as influential as Marius Petipa but never here does he resort into self-indulgence like Maurice Bejart. The dancers give a really great account of the choreography too, the technique is impeccable and will leave you in awe and they don't forget to show their acting chops either. Natalya Bessmertnova is incredibly touching and throughout her performance is graceful and gentle. Even better is Irek Mukhamedov, his movements are powerful, his physique imposing and regal and his acting expressive, he brings out all the many conflicts and nuances to Ivan's character and with utter conviction. In conclusion, a very good performance. 8/10 Bethany Cox
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