Ballet fans are in for an exclusive treat! The world premiere of neo-classical ballet ‘Echo and Narcissus’ in Malaysia by two of its leading proponents – Silvia Azzoni and Alexandre Riabko, principal dancers of Hamburg Ballet is set to thrill fans at Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC) from 6 March to 8 March 2020!
Organised by Meadow Ballet Centre, the performance is supported by the Embassy of Italy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Goethe-Institut and European Union National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC).
The prominent performers will be accompanied by Polish pianist Michal Bialk, whom they had collaborated together in previous performances.
The story of ‘Echo and Narcissus’ revolves around a mountain nymph named Echo, and a hunter named Narcissus. This ballet traces the essence of this Greek myth, which follows a maze of desire, unfulfilled romance and shifted destinies. The accompanying music elevates the throbbing susceptibility of a rejected soul, whilst the expression of a being whose outward beauty eventually becomes an obstacle to one’s own receptivity.
What sets apart ‘Echo & Narcissus’ from traditional ballets is the conception of three unique artists; collaborating with four different choreographers, each with their individual respective styles. “We wanted to combine these four different styles in a seamless and homogeneous way, to express a great narrative. I believe it would be a unique experience for the audience to see how this process unfolds”, says Alexandre. Silvia added, “This ballet embraces classical and neoclassical elements, but has modern aspects to it; a combination of various styles to satisfy a diverse audience.”
Silvia’s work is acclaimed to leave the audiences captivated and charmed by her display of raw emotional expressions as she unfolds the layers of a narrative. She interprets her characters on stage richly in their moments of human consciousness. Undeniably, the great chemistry between her and Alexandre Riabko is one of the prime factors that both of them have made a remarkable impression in the international dance scene. Alexandre has carried immense charisma while personifying Nijinsky in “Nijinsky”, an evocative thrill that demonstrated his ingenuity. Both Silvia and Alexandre had frequently partnered for a list of repertoires, including “Lady of the Camellias”, “Hamlet” (Pas de deux), “Desire”, and “Third Symphony of Gustav Mahler”.
Michal Bialk, the accompanying pianist, debuted with the Krakow Philharmonic and regularly performs solo or in orchestras across Europe, North Africa and Asia. Michal Bialk is appraised as he combines pianistic brilliance with tactful interpretation. His performance of the piano cultivates the nobility of a pure touch whose signature extends to an orchestral richness.
Distinguished for his Polish and Spanish musical interpretation, he also has been collaborating with the famous director and choreographer, John Neumeier of the Hamburg Ballet since 2006.
Prior to the three-day ballet performance, Silvia and Alexandre will be conducting a ballet workshop on the 4th March 2020 at the Federal Academy of Ballet (FAB).
This workshop aims to introduce young dancers and educators on perfecting dance techniques and methods used by professional dancers. It is organised as part of a cultural exchange experience whilst bridging the international gap and providing exposure for local talents.
Details of Echo & Narcissus – Ballet are as follows:
• Dates & Times: –
Friday, 6th March : 8.30pm –
Saturday,7th March : 8.30pm
– Sunday, 8th March : 3pm
• Venue: Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC) H-01,
DPAC, Empire Damansara, Jalan PJU 8/8, Damansara Perdana, 47820 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. •
Ticket Prices: – Red Zone: RM98 – Yellow Zone: RM128 – White Zone: RM158 • Box Office Phone: +603 92021339 or +6017 3818339
Be sure to follow @echoandnarcissusballet on Facebook for more information about the performance and workshop.
