Open Stage 2026. Performances “Scheherazade” and “Carmen” - International Grand Ballet

“Portraits of Imagination and Desire”

“Scheherazade” and “Carmen”

International Grand Ballet, Ukraine

choreography: Viktor Shcherbakov

Music: N. Rimsky-Korsakov

libretto: Alexandre Benois

Some characters never cease to fascinate. The eras, the language of the theater and the aesthetics change, and they keep coming back because they carry with them questions that remain relevant. Who are we when we choose the heart instead of the mind? What price does freedom have? Is it possible to save yourself without giving up your own desires? The festival evening with “Scheherezada” and “Carmen” intertwines two stories that, although set in worlds far from each other, lead to similar reflections. The first part of the evening takes viewers to the Sultan's palace. The music of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov opens up a space full of pomp, mystery and sensuality, where very human emotions are hidden behind the richness of oriental decorations. Zobeida, the Sultan's favorite wife, is faced with a choice between obedience and affection.

The choreography brings out from this story above all the beauty of the movement and the intensity of the relationship between the characters. Great ensemble scenes intertwine with tense duets, creating a world that mesmerizes with color, rhythm and theatrical expression. Viktor Shcherbakov — choreographer

“Scheherazade” remains one of the most painterly works of the classical repertoire — a performance that invites the viewer to the realm of imagination from the very first stage. After a break, the atmosphere changes completely. The illuminated exoticism is replaced by sun-warmed Seville, and a woman who has remained a symbol of independence for more than a century enters the scene. Carmen is not looking for acceptance or security. He is guided by his own rules and does not allow anyone to decide his life. Her encounter with Don José leads to a drama in which passion gradually gives way to jealousy and obsession.

This is one of the most expressive female roles in the history of ballet. Not because Carmen seduces, but because she consistently remains herself. In a world trying to impose her choice, she corresponds with freedom, even if it means loneliness and risk. Viktor Shcherbakov — choreographerInternational Grand Ballet guides the audience through two different worlds with attention to the elegance of classical dance and the readability of theatrical narrative. Each of the parts has its own character, pace and aesthetics, thanks to which the evening is not a juxtaposition of two ballets, but a meeting with two extraordinary women who tell in different ways about love, freedom and destiny.

This is a festival evening aimed primarily at lovers of classical ballet, great music and theatrical stories, in which dance can express more than words. It will delight viewers who appreciate the beauty of traditional repertoire, but also those who like to discover timeless characters in new interpretations.

Two heroines. Two distant worlds. One question that remains with the viewer long after the end of the performance — is it worth staying true to yourself if the price is everything?

After the performance, we invite you to meet the artists.

Program of the XV International Festival of Dance Theatres OPEN STAGE

“Co-financed from the funds of the Minister of Culture and National Heritage from the Fund for the Promotion of Culture — a state special purpose fund, as part of the “Dance” program, implemented by the National Institute of Music and Dance”