This year, the music world celebrates the 135th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Russian composer, pianist, and conductor Sergei Sergeyevich Prokofiev. The Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre is rounding up the season with a major premiere of the ballet Romeo and Juliet, dedicated to the composer’s anniversary.
On May 29, 30, and 31, 2026, a series of performances of the premiere production is going to take place in the Great Hall of the Theatre. Choreography is set by Eldar Aliev, People’s Artist of Russia, Ballet Artistic Director of the Primorsky Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. The production team also includes set designer Semyon Pastukh, costume designer Liliya Khismatullina, and lighting designer Taras Mikhalevsky.
One of the most popular 20th century ballets will be presented in its original aesthetic. The color pattern of the performance emphasizes the confrontation between two families, reflecting the struggle between good and evil, and the juxtaposition of love and hate. From concept to completion, the production took two years to develop.
The leading parts in the premiere performances will be performed by the leading dancers of the ballet company: Irina Sapozhnikova, Lada Sartakova, Lilia Berezhnova, Denis Klepikov, Razmik Marukyan, Sergei Amanbaev, Shizuru Kato, and Sergei Umanetc.
Romeo and Juliet will come as the second premiere of the ballet company in the season. In October, the company presented La fille mal gardeé, set to the music by Louis Hérold and choreographed by Oleg Vinogradov, People’s Artist of the USSR.
