“Icons of Ballet”: The Iconic Concert Returns to London in March 2024

Every year-end, queues form at theatres for Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker”. His “Swan Lake” has become a symbol of a historic political revolution and has long transcended its association with just ballet. Diaghilev’s “Russian Seasons” had a colossal impact on the art world in Europe and globally. Ballet is more than just dance; it’s a visual conversation with the audience, conveying significant ideas and emotions through body movements. In March 2024, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the ballet world at the grand gala concert “Icons of Ballet” — Afisha.London provides more details on the event.

Ballet, a true embodiment of high art, can be complex for an unprepared viewer to fully appreciate. However, once one delves into its world, understanding the wordless narratives and grasping the nuances of dance technique, a magical universe unfolds, making cultural life seem incomplete without it.

Telegram канал

The aristocratic style, elegance, and the physical and psychological intensity of ballet have found their reflection in literature and cinema, notably in Darren Aronofsky’s “Black Swan”, for which Natalie Portman won an Oscar. The film exposes the fierce competition in ballet and the harsh journey of a dancer striving for perfection.

Exploring the world of ballet might seem vast and lengthy, considering the plethora of performances and musical scores to be acquainted with. However, the “Icons of Ballet” concert stands out for its uniqueness, offering an ideal introduction for both seasoned aficionados and newcomers. The event features outstanding dancers from around the world, presenting performances from various renowned ballet productions.

“It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that this ballet Gala concert is the most unique event in the global ballet calendar, both in terms of the number of participating stars and their ranks. We strive to delight our audience not only with excerpts from the most famous and beloved ballets but also to surprise, and often shock, with ballet premieres that completely change the perception of traditional ballet art. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind dance festival that will fill every viewer with emotions!” commented Olga Balakleets, creator of the “Icons of Ballet” Gala evening.

The evening’s program will include masterpieces of classical ballet, works by renowned contemporary choreographers, and global choreographic premieres. The concert will be accompanied by the English National Ballet Philharmonic Orchestra.

Рождественский Лондон: парфюмерное путешествие сквозь время

On a single evening at London’s Coliseum, you can witness the greatest stars of world ballet — principal dancers from the Royal Opera House, Paris Opera Ballet, English National Ballet, Vienna State Ballet, Bavarian State Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and Boston Ballet.

Read also: Ivan Turgenev’s Sojourn in London: a literary ambassador between the Russian Empire and the West

This landmark social event in London’s calendar will culminate in an elegant evening: a refined dinner with an entertainment program at the luxurious five-star Corinthia Hotel, attended by ballet stars and celebrities.

At the dinner, guests will have the opportunity to interact with the artists, hear backstage stories firsthand, take memorable photos, and get autographs.

Read also: Rudolf Nureyev: an emigrant, who became a ballet legend

All this makes the “Icons of Ballet” gala concert one of the must-have events in London’s cultural life — a true connoisseur of beauty should not miss it. Especially now, as everyone is actively preparing for the holidays — what could be a better gift for loved ones than the lasting impressions and emotions they will remember for years?

Tickets for the concert can be purchased here, and the VIP dinner package is available here.

Cover Photo: BALLET ICONS GALA

Gala ballet 2025

Read also: 

Ballerina Anna Pavlova: a beautiful swan of two empires

Anna Akhmatova in the UK: A Poetess, Muse and Femme Fatale

The UK and beyond: film adaptations of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s books