The Stanislavsky Theatre, located in XIX century historical building just 750 metres (9-minute walk) from the Bolshoi, proudly preserves this legendary production on its stage. Its performances bring together dancers of the highest caliber—artists who have graced the stage of the Bolshoi Theatre and trained at the same elite academies that produced Russia’s greatest ballet stars. Their artistry and mastery ensure that every performance of Swan Lake resonates with timeless grace, dramatic depth, and emotional truth. Ballet at the Stanislavsky Theatre is the great and affordable alternative to the Bolshoi.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, in the legendary production by the outstanding choreographer Vladimir Burmeister, has long become a jewel of the Moscow stage. Premiered in 1953, this masterpiece remains untouched by time, its beauty and power as moving today as they were more than half a century ago.
In his staging, Burmeister preserved Lev Ivanov’s celebrated second act from the 19th century. The unforgettable vision of the white swans’ appearance—complete with the world-famous “Dance of the Little Swans”—is presented in its original form. Yet in all other respects, Burmeister’s version is remarkably original and continues to stand unmatched. His interpretation gave the ballet a precisely crafted dramaturgy and a profound philosophical dimension, elevating the work far beyond its fairytale roots.
The production’s international triumph came in 1956, when the Theatre toured Paris. The reception was so overwhelming that Burmeister was invited to stage his Swan Lake at the Paris Opera, where it remained in the repertoire from 1960 until the late 1980s, becoming a milestone in ballet history.
Scene One
Princess Odette has been enchanted by the evil sorcerer Rothbart and transformed into a swan. She can be saved only by one who loves her, swears eternal fidelity, and keeps that vow.
Scene Two
During a hunt on the lakeshore, Prince Siegfried encounters the swan maidens. Among them is Odette. Siegfried and Odette fall in love. The Prince vows to remain faithful to her all his life and to break the sorcerer’s spell.
Scene Three
Siegfried’s mother, the reigning Princess, hosts a grand celebration in her castle, where the Prince must choose a bride. In love with Odette, Siegfried refuses to select any maiden. At that moment, the sorcerer appears in disguise, presenting his daughter Odile, who looks exactly like Odette. Deceived by the resemblance, Siegfried declares Odile his bride. Rothbart triumphs.
Scene Four
Realizing his mistake, Siegfried rushes to the lakeshore. He begs Odette’s forgiveness, but she withdraws. The vow of fidelity has been broken, and Odette cannot be freed from the spell. A storm rises, the lake overflows its banks. Seeing that Siegfried is in mortal danger, Odette throws herself to him. Together they overcome Rothbart: the sorcerer perishes, the storm subsides, and the White Swan becomes once more the maiden Odette.