Carmen - Full Ballet Ballet Internationale Also performing Treasures from Russian Ballet Repertoire November 6, 2004 $25 ($13 ages 18 and under)

The legendary saga of love, deception, and seduction comes to life as Ballet Internationale presents the full ballet-version of Carmen. Set to the timeless music of George Bizet, and choreographed by Alsonso Adolfo, this story of the Spanish Gypsy Carmen and her lover Jose is filled with passion, pathos, and of course a few bullfights.

Founded in 1973, Ballet Internationale remains dedicated to its mission to further the evolution of dance by preserving and building upon the traditions of Russian classical ballet by creating professional entertainment that inspires, educates, and challenges. Currently maintaining twenty-nine professional dancers on contract for a 36 week season, the Company is led by Artistic Director Eldar Aliev.

Prior to joining Ballet Internationale in 1992, Eldar Aliev enjoyed a 13-year career as Principal dancer with the Kirov Ballet and toured with that company, and as a guest star, to over 30 countries. He also toured internationally in the Galaxy of Russian Ballet series and with Yekaterina Maximova, Vladimir Vasiliev and the Stars of the Kirov and Bolshoi Ballets. With his commanding presence, and unique interpretations of lead roles in classics such as Swan Lake, La Bayadère, Le Corsaire, Spartacus, Don Quixote, and others, Aliev quickly became a Kirov favorite and sought after guest star. In 1994, Aliev became the artistic director for Ballet Internationale. Under his leadership, the company has built a national and international reputation for excellence. During his tenure, he has enriched the repertoire of the company by restaging classical ballet treasures, inviting contemporary choreographers to stage their works, and creating original productions.

Another contributing factor to Ballet Internationale’s success has been Aliev’s ability to attract some of the best dancers from around the world. Six of the Company dancers have earned medals from the most prestigious international competitions, including Gold and Bronze medals at the 2003 International Ballet Competition in New York. Most recently, dancers with Ballet Internationale have been invited to perform at two world-renowned ballet galas: Gala des Etoiles in Montreal, Canada, and Stars of the 21st Century in Paris, France.

Ballet Internationale will be performing a selection of solos, pas des deux, and pas des trois from the Russian ballet repertoire in the first half of the program, and a full ballet version of Carmen, set the music of Georges Bizet,after the intermission.

Related Links:

www.balletinternationale.org