dblueroom

So far, the POB is best in my opinion, though it's been a long time. the orchestra performance foremost, was incomparable. Then cast, Hilaire's charisma, unparalleled, and Guerin had the beauty and technique that inspires. both were very musical. The costume and the setting the stage i haven't seen any that will rival. I recently saw Bolshoi version with Lantratov and Zakharova. I din't pay much attention to the setting but whatever Grigorovich touches loses the classical beauty of the grand classical. I certainly noticed choreographic differences that are not appealing. There was added scene for Gamzatti, which I didn't find necessary. I haven't watched Mariinsky on dvd, only pieces. I believe it was Victoria Tereshkina & Vladimir Shklyarov on dvd however, with all respect, Tereshkina is not attractive, and has an old and aggressive look on her face. She has nothing in common with Nikiya. I think she could be a good cast as Gamzatti. Shklyarov is a very good dancer, but I've seen better Solor at Mariinsky. Normally I won't pay to see a non Russian ballerina in main role, but I will check out ABT's this summer with Cory Stearn as Solor, and in Zakarova's production, but I have low expectation. So enjoy your POB version, which is also free in its entirety on YouTube.