Show: The Snow Maiden
Location: Empire Theatre, Liverpool
Date: Tuesday February 15 2022
Time: 19.30
Running Time: 110 Minutes incl. Interval
Production Company: Russian State Ballet Of Siberia
This is our review of The Snow Maiden from Russian State Ballet Of Siberia at Liverpool‘s Empire Theatre. So, let’s take a look at The Snow Maiden!
The Snow Maiden
Synopsis Of The Snow Maiden
The story of the Snow Maiden is one of love and heartbreak, happiness and sadness. This contrast of emotions reflects the conflict between the Snow Maiden and sunlight. Indeed, her very existence relies upon the coldest of temperatures. And she is literally, physically unable to exist when the temperatures are soaring. Yet at age 15, she has always lived in an environment of coldness, allowing her to flourish. Meanwhile, those within Red Hill and beyond love her.
Yet nobody loves her more than Mizgir, and the two develop feelings for one another. However, Mizgir is supposed to marry Kupava, and she responds by banishing her lover to the forest. By this point, Snow Maiden starts to feel disconsolate, believing that she can never find true love. Furthermore, Mizgir’s intentions are unclear. However, as the plot develops, they reunite and they begin to experience true love. But that’s when Snow Maiden’s biggest flaw comes to life. That’s because love could trigger sunlight, thus meaning that finding love might actually cause her demise.
Analysis Of The Snow Maiden
The whole story happens through ballet. And the performances are of a high calibre indeed. The dance routines are immaculate, professional and close to perfection. So much so that it’s hard to remember one singular moment of dance; the show as a whole is the highlight. The storytelling is also spot-on for this genre as it has the ability to draw real emotion from the audience. In fact, attendees surrounding me began to cry on multiple occasions due to the drama of the show.
Elsewhere, the artistic imagery in the background to reflect Red Hill is superb and at times mesmerising. The gasps of awe during the revelations of the snowy scenes are an example of this. Meanwhile, the costumes are authentic to the spirit of the story. I also have to mention the fantastic use of special effects during the lake scenes. They aren’t over-the-top, but they are a surprise and they are breathtaking. It goes without saying that the cast earned their final bow when the curtains closed to end the night.
Summary Of The Snow Maiden
Anyone that appreciates the fine art of ballet will relish getting to see this show. Russian State Ballet Of Siberia is as good as ever in their production of this story. And the tale is one that manages to evoke every emotion possible throughout the night. So, if you’re a fan of ballet, I strongly suggest that you make sure to check out The Snow Maiden.
Notes
Target Audience: Ages 8+
Content: No Content Likely To Offend
Recommendation?: Yes
