Classic Russian ballets ‘The Nutcracker,’ ‘Romeo and Juliet’ take center stage in Hanoi

On this visit, artists from the Russian State Ballet are presenting two iconic masterpieces, 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'The Nutcracker,' to audiences in the Vietnamese capital.

Supported by Maritime Bank of Vietnam (MSB) and ROX Group, the program offers Vietnamese audiences a chance to experience the refined artistry of classical Russian ballet first-hand, set in the elegant and world-class space of Ho Guom Opera.

Founded in 1981 by Soviet People’s Artist Vyacheslav Gordeev, the Russian State Ballet is among the country’s leading ballet companies.

It has captivated audiences in more than 40 countries and territories worldwide through tours featuring classics such as 'The Nutcracker,' 'Sleeping Beauty,' 'Giselle,' and 'Romeo and Juliet,' helping bring ballet closer to global audiences.

Bringing together many young talents from top academies, the company’s performances often sell out wherever they appear.

For this return to Vietnam, artistic director Vyacheslav Gordeev introduces several standout performers, including Viktor Davydov, Ustiuzhaninova S, Oksana Gasnikova, and Dmitry Kotermin, among others.

During its first visit to Hanoi in April 2025, the company received strong appreciation from audiences and critics following a performance of 'Swan Lake,' paving the way for this return.

On Wednesday, for the first time, the Russian State Ballet collaborates with the Hanoi Symphony Orchestra to present 'The Nutcracker' with Tchaikovsky’s timeless music, promising to transport audiences into a vivid fairytale world filled with the imagination and signature movements of classical Russian ballet.

'The Nutcracker,' composed by Tchaikovsky and choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, premiered in 1892 and remains one of the most frequently performed ballets worldwide.

On Thursday and Friday, the company will stage 'Romeo and Juliet,' adapted from Shakespeare’s literary masterpiece and set to Sergei Prokofiev’s dramatic score.