This is a video of Irek Mukhamedov and Viviana Durante dancing the Summer pas de deux from Kenneth MacMillan’s The Four Seasons, made in 1992. I love how harmonious it is – the music, the choreography, the dancers…how they all blend and make the piece complete. It is somehow so pure, a true performance that touches and moves – rare nowadays, and probably just as rare back in the day.. Definitely one of my favourite ballet recordings, it really appeals to me on many levels.
And this is ‘Ballerina on a Boat’ – an exquisite old animated clip, set to the music of Schnittke. Have you ever seen a ballerina with more grace and charm than this young lady? I don’t think that is even possible. What a beautiful interpretation!!
Finally, since I’m posting YouTube links today, and am on the subject of animation, I might as well recommend another gem of Russian animated films – “My Love” by the talented Alexander Petrov – created using a complicated and interesting technique that includes painting on glass sheets). It gives us a glimpse into the life of a young boy in 19th century Russia.. The cartoon is done in great taste and radiates the creator’s distinct style. This is part 1 of 3 (with subtitles in English). Enjoy!
