From the moment the curtains rise, the stage at The VETS will come alive with a performance that blurs the lines between classical and contemporary in Ballet RI’s interpretation of Swan Lake, a ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in the late 1870s. In this take on a classic, references to the time period are stripped in place of a ubiquitis vision in which love, betrayal, and redemption take precedence over setting. “We wanted to create a version that feels timeless and universally resonant,” explains Kathleen Breen Combes, artistic executive director. “By removing the constraints of a specific era or culture, we can bring the focus back to the beauty of the traditional choreography and humanity within the story.”
Making its highly anticipated return to the stage for the first time since 2019, the production promises a breathtaking spectacle. Under Combes and the choreography of Yury Yanowsky, artistic curator and resident choreographer, this rendition masterfully blends tradition with innovation. While deeply rooted in preserving the iconic choreography that has captivated audiences for generations, subtle touches of modernity weave through performances, lending a new dynamism to familiar sequences. “It is definitely celebrating the beauty and timelessness of traditional
choreography,” Combes affirms, “with some adaptations and a little neoclassical slant in some areas to give it a fresh appeal for today’s audiences.”
From elegant sets to the sight of 17 synchronized dancers adorned in exquisite tutus, each act will imbue a very different aesthetic, while still tying back to the theme. In a bold artistic choice, projections have been incorporated to enrich the storytelling. Combes relays that they aim to use these elements as enhancements rather than distractions: “It’s about using modern technology to bring the story to life without detracting from the dancers.”
Behind all the grandeur lies an arduous process that has been underway for a year. The journey from concept to stage is complex, involving meticulous planning, endless rehearsals, and extraordinary physical endurance from the dancers. Swan Lake is one of the most physically demanding ballets in the repertoire, and the expectations are high. “It’s incredibly taxing,” admits Combes. “Even cross-training is part of the preparation to get those beautiful swan arms ready.”
Probably the single most crucial component of the production is casting the dual role of pure and innocent Odette and the cunning, seductive Odile. “You need a dancer who can act as both characters equally convincingly and take on the physical demands of the role with ease,” says Combes. Company dancer Alexandria Troianos, who has been with Ballet RI for two years, will take on the role for the first time. For Troianos, the opportunity is both a challenge and a dream come true. “I’m excited to spread my wings and make it my own,” says the lifelong dancer originally from Pittsburgh, PA.
For a smaller company, bringing such a grand presentation to life presents unique challenges. Without the extensive resources of larger, well-funded institutions, the team must navigate logistical constraints with strategic decision-making. “This is a huge undertaking for us,” she acknowledges, “but I decided to stage this production now because I knew our dancers were up to the task and could deliver a beautiful rendition.”
Theatergoers can look forward to an evening of passion, heartbreak, and transcendence. According to Combes, the most memorable moment will come at the very end. More than anything, the show seeks to inspire. When asked what Combes hopes audiences will take away from the performance more than anything, her answer is simple: “Hope. And that people leave the theater touched by the beauty of art.”
Saturday, May 3: 1:30pm & 6:30pm
Sunday May 4: 1:30pm
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