I don’t know how many times I’ve watched this video.  Four times, today alone.  Polina Semionova is rehearsing an Act 1 solo from La Bayadere, under Vladimir Malakhov’s watchful eye.  Pay special attention to the incredible bourree starting at 2:10.  Are there wheels on the floor?  A string pulling her along?

What makes this solo interesting is how different it is from the on stage version.  Act 1 of La Bayadere opens in Royal India where Nikiya (Semionova) dances in traditional Indian costume around a smoking cauldron.  In rehearsal, there is far less Indian influence and the Leon Minkus piece, normally played by a full orchestra, is pared down to the piano.   It’s amazing what props and costume can do to change an entire dance!

Semionova’s dancing is so captivating (those arms!), but let’s not ignore Malakhov’s dazzling choice in warm-up attire.  I used to think these outfits had to be a Ukrainian secret, of which the rest of the world was unaware.  Not so.  A Japanese dance company designs the look, under the label, “Malakhov by Chacott.”  They look like itchy pajamas to me but when you can dance well sitting on a step, I think you can wear whatever you want.  Stripes and all.

This entry was posted Saturday, January 17th, 2009 at 10:09 pm and is filed under The Pros, Video. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.