On 19 January Yaroslav Pushkov will be making his debut as Vaslav in the ballet The Fountain of Bakhchisarai. | |||||
This will be the first major role in the repertoire of Yaroslav Pushkov, now in his second season with the Mariinsky Ballet. The character of Vaslav was first danced in 1934 by Konstantin Sergeyev, arguably the most vivid and lyrical dancer of the 1930s-1950s. Of the dancers of the next generation, Sergei Vikulov was frequently named as a successor to Sergeyev’s performing style; Vikulov’s individuality revealed itself in romantic and lyrical roles. His repertoire also included the role of Vaslav. Today Sergei Vikulov passes on his experiences and skills to young dancers, sharing the secrets of the profession and the stylistic nuances of various productions with them. One of his students is Yaroslav Pushkov, who will be making his debut as Maria’s beloved, and he will have to demonstrate his skills not just as a dancer and actor but also an understanding of the traditions of Soviet dramatic ballet. |