The premiere of Ludvig Minkus’s ballet La Bayadère with the choreography of Marius Petipa and Aivars Leimanis will take place at the Latvian National Opera on April 20. The conductor of the production – Farhads Stade, the Set and Costume Designer – Ināra Gauja.

The cast of the production includes Margarita Demjanoka, Jūlija Gurviča, Viktorija Jansone or Alise Prudāne(Nikya), Sabīne Guravska, Elza Leimane-Martinova, Jolanta Lubēja or  Juka Mijake (Gamzatti), Aleksejs Avečkins, Raimonds Martinovs, Sergejs Neikšins or Arturs Sokolovs (Solor).

The genius choreography by Petipa has been winning over the hearts of the public for more than one hundred years. Classical dance portrays graceful Temple Dancer Nikiya– her love for the brave soldier Solor blossoms and perishes in the passions and games of the luxurious Eastern court. This is the first production of La Bayadère on the LNO stage, and the splendid and majestic peak of the season. Its challenging choreography demands a high level of artistry, which only a few ballet companies are capable of. The Latvian National Ballet is proud to join them.

The Artistic Director of the Latvian National Ballet, choreographer Aivars Leimanis: ‘The Latvian National Ballet was founded almost 90 years ago. In this time, we have staged all of the great classic ballets that still receive ovations around the world. Of course, with the exception of one – Petipa’s oriental fairy tale about love and betrayal has only been presented to our public in excerpts. The first production of La Bayadère in Riga is a unique event – a long-awaited and splendid celebration for all the friends of the ballet. The challenging choreography demands a high level of artistry, which only a few ballet companies are capable of. I am delighted that our ballet company can blossom with not just one or two, but four strong lead roles in all. I am pleased with all the artists taking part in this production. A fantastic job was done by Set Designer and Costume Designer Ināra Gauja, who has created the bright colours and unique atmosphere of India. I would like to give credit to everyone who helped La Bayadère to come to Riga.’

The patron of the production is Latvijas Mobilais telefons.