Stream: Anastasia
Originally a German expressionist one-act ballet created by Kenneth MacMillan in 1967 for Deutsche Oper Ballet, exploring the claim of Anna Anderson as to whether she was the youngest daughter of Tsar Nicholas who survived the assassination of the Romanov family. It is set in an Asylum, where Anderson was for a time secured, looking back at the haunting images of her past with a score of Martinu’s Sixth Symphony. Although gaining critical acclaim, especially for the anguished performance by Lynne Seymour, this was something new for British audiences. In 1971 following the success of his first full length ballet ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and since becoming Director of the Royal Ballet, MacMillan decided to expand the story into a full three act ballet using music by Tchaikovsky. A new Act One focussed on fond memories of her youth with her family on board a Royal Yacht, and Act Two on her spectacular coming out ball.
This is an experimental work and showcases the brilliance of MacMillan’s different influences of classical tradition and German expressionism. And what better prima ballerina to take on this role than Natalia Osipova? In Act one she exudes youth and sprightly charm, displaying her light ‘ballon’ and quick fire bourrées. In Act two she exudes the Russian style, whilst the corps get to put into practise all those national classes from ballet school. But in Act three she really comes into her own. Stripped of her regal gowns and in a simple shift, the dramatic interpretation is a perfect opportunity to show her intense range of style and characterisation. It really is her show.
Not that the role-call of principals is lacking. Federico Bonelli and Mariella Nunez take on the grand Pas De Deux as Mathilde Kschessinska and her partner in the ballroom scene. For once they both looked slightly uncomfortable and underwhelmed in these roles. Thiago Soares lurks well as the sinister Rasputin and of course Edward Watson in Act Three as the husband proves the perfect partner. The design by Bob Crowley is dark and brooding, with great chandeliers looming over the ballroom and sumptuous costumes and uniforms. For the other members of the company there is plenty to do with different parts to play in each act, many costume changes and complicated entrances and exits. There are many charming Pas De Trois in Act One, especially from the three sisters, and it was especially enjoyable to see the Csardas and Tropak danced in Act Two. However, one dancer stole the show. The youngster playing the young prince (who suffered from haemophilia) was worthy of an Oscar. He was a natural. Being thrown into Rasputin’s arms from off stage was a ‘tour de force’.
Once again, this screening provided an opportunity to see a less performed ballet from the comfort of your own home. Bravo!
Available for free on YouTube until the 28th of May.
