When the most adopted version of Swan Lake premiered at the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, Russia, nearly 122 years ago, one could not predict that it would remain in the repertoire of most prominent ballet companies around the globe to this day. Last year, the San Francisco Ballet presented Helgi Tomasson’s strikingly modern Swan Lake, which instantly sold out; the famous ballet was reprised again for 2017 season with continued great success. So, what makes Swan Lake still relevant today?
The answer it seems is both simple and complex, just like the storyline itself: A prince must choose between two loves/birds/girls, but the decision is not entirely his, as he is also a victim of manipulation and intrigue. Set to Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's dramatic, eloquent score - performed by the SF Ballet orchestra that celebrated its 41st birthday in 2017 - this ballet is a total experience. The audience is a silent witness, except for an occasional burst of applause, to the entire cycle of lovers' relationship. From romance to reality, from reaction to reflection, Swan Lake is an elating journey across so many human states and emotions that it is difficult not to relate. Tomasson's use of video projections together with updated set and memorable costume designs propel this classic ballet forward.
For many people today, ballet feels old and traditional, but those who are able to break this stereotype are in for a real treat. First of all, do not be surprised if Tchaikovsky's score feels familiar, it is one of the most recycled classical soundtracks in the popular culture, from films to advertising. It reminds us again of the true genius and timelessness of this composer’s works.
Secondly, the marvel of the corps de ballet dancers, their choreographical precision is akin to 32 synchronized Olympic swimmers jumping off the platform all at once. Thirty-two swans moving in complete unison- it is an image that is difficult to imagine and hard to forget. Then there are the Swan Queen's 32 fouettes, super-fast turns on a point, a sublime lesson in how training makes it perfect.
For principal dancers performing Swan Lake is a must-have entry on their resume. Playing two roles of Odette/Odile - the white swan and the black swan - is the dramatic highlight of the entire ballet. The bewitched white swan is vulnerable and genuine. The villainess black swan -seductive and manipulative. Yuan Yuan Tan, SF Ballet principal dancer, successfully performs one of the most difficult roles in this ballet with full confidence. Tan's technique is impeccable and exquisite, with the right intensity matching that of Tchaikovsky's intended musical peaks.
The great composer was a devout Christian. The Epic finale of the ballet reflects Tchaikovsky's belief in life-after-death. When the Swan Queen and her Prince take their own lives to break the evil spell, the moment feels visceral and real. In the end, hope endures. It soars high in Tomasson's production, as lovers are reunited in the afterlife. This sanguine conclusion is met with a standing ovation. Swan Lake might be an old ballet, but its key adage that love conquers all is as true today as it was 122 years ago.
