The Legacy of Maestro Yuri Grigorovich... Korean National Ballet to Stage "Swan Lake"

April 7-12 at the Opera Theater of the Seoul Arts Center

The Korean National Ballet will present "Swan Lake," the quintessence of classical ballet, as its first regular performance of 2026 at the Opera Theater of the Seoul Arts Center from April 7 to 12.

Set to Tchaikovsky’s lyrical and grand melodies, "Swan Lake" tells the story of Princess Odette and Prince Siegfried’s love, with Odette cursed by the evil sorcerer Rothbart to become a swan by day and return to human form at night.

This staging of "Swan Lake," making a return after two years since 2024, will serve as a tribute to Yuri Grigorovich, the legendary figure of Russia’s Bolshoi Ballet who passed away at the end of last year. The Korean National Ballet has received enthusiastic responses from audiences by performing "Swan Lake" in the version choreographed by Yuri Grigorovich.

Yuri Grigorovich’s "Swan Lake" is renowned for its dramatic narrative, grand ensemble scenes, and clear character development, which together create a powerful theatrical interpretation. In particular, the corps de ballet of 24 swans in Act II is considered the epitome of "Ballet Blanc" (pure white ballet).

A key highlight is that the principal ballerina must portray the contrasting roles of the pure and tragic white swan Odette and the glamorous, seductive black swan Odile in a single performance. For this production, the leading principal dancer Park Seulki, soloist Han Narae, and corps de ballet member An Suyeon will take turns performing as Odette and Odile. The role of Prince Siegfried, partnering with them, will be performed by principal dancer Park Jongseok, principal dancer Heo Seomyeong, and corps de ballet member Yang Junyoung.

Tickets can be reserved through the Seoul Arts Center website and NOL Ticket.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.