Russian ballet troupe to treat Vietnamese to masterpiece Anna Karenina for first time

The prestigious ballet company will stage performances in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

This cultural event is not only a highlight in Vietnam's arts calendar, but also a rare chance for local audiences to experience the excellence of world-class ballet on home soil.

In Ho Chi Minh City, selected excerpts from Anna Karenina will be performed over three evenings from November 27 to 29 at the Saigon Opera House.

Hanoi will host the complete ballet at the Vietnam-Soviet Friendship Cultural Palace on December 4 and 5.

Audiences in the capital will be treated to the full artistic and emotional depth of this masterpiece, hailed by international critics as a 'symphony of the body.'

The ballet, choreographed by Boris Eifman, blends classical ballet technique with bold modern movement, creating an emotionally charged and visually stunning narrative.

Eifman, widely recognized as one of the greatest choreographers, has built a distinctive style that redefines the boundaries of ballet and modern dance.

Founded by Eifman more than four decades ago, Eifman Ballet has become a symbol of contemporary ballet excellence, winning multiple accolades such as the coveted Prix Benois de la Danse, often referred to as the 'Oscar of the ballet world.'

Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Ta Quang Dong said that Eifman Ballet's decision to select Vietnam as one of the troupe's destinations during the 2025 world tour reflected the country's growing reputation in the global performing arts community.

Hoang Hai Huong, a representative of the Vietnam National Arts Theater, noted that the event would be a major source of inspiration, helping raise professional standards and fuel the creative ambitions of the next generation of artists.

Eifman Ballet hopes audiences will discover that ballet is not just refined movement, but also a language of the soul.

Each gesture tells a story, and each motion carries emotion.

Even those unfamiliar with ballet or the Russian language will be able to connect with the performance.

No words or technical knowledge are necessary, just an open heart ready to feel.