Theatre artists have a real problem with Henrik Ibsen's Peer Gynt . This dramatic poem, with its episodic structure and use of fantastical elements, posed a challenge for the stage designers, but it turns out to be ideal material for a ballet performance. In 2015, the choreography for Peer Gynt was created by the Slovenian dancer of Romanian origin, Edward Clug. The premiere in Maribor was a huge success, and the ballet later traveled to Zurich, Vienna, Dortmund, Hanover, and Leipzig. What accounts for the production's popularity? Above all, it doesn't shy away from the original's fragmented narrative, leaving the significance of the protagonist's individual adventures unsaid, and above all, it employs a remarkably contemporary visual language, avoiding treating Ibsen's drama as a dusty old fairy tale inspired by folklore.

Peer Gynt

Teatr Wielki - Polish National Opera

A beautiful Indian fairy tale about love whose power transcends death. Legendary ballet star Natalia Makarova staged La Bayadère at the Bolshoi Theatre , following the finest examples from St. Petersburg. She meticulously recreated and refined the original choreographic version by the great Marius Petipa from 1877, while preserving his unparalleled choreography of the Kingdom of the Shades scene – one of the phenomenal aspects of classical ballet. She created her La Bayadère first for the American Ballet Theatre in New York and then performed it several times with the finest classical dance companies. This colorful, romantic spectacle captivates with its grandeur, is deeply moving, and leaves a lasting impression. It is full of soloistic displays and magnificent ensemble scenes. It is a perfect test of the academic artistry of any ballet company, including the Polish National Ballet and its leading soloists.

Alexei Baklan

Events

Upcoming events

Feb 20 - Mar 20, 2026

Peer Gynt · Polish National Opera

Mar 27 - Jun 30, 2026

La Bayadère · Polish National Opera

Future and recently performed repertoire

Conductor in Peer Gynt by Grieg

Polish National Opera

Conductor in La Bayadère by Minkus

Polish National Opera

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