Emeralds, Rubies, Diamonds

Like his frequent collaborator, Igor Stravinsky, Balanchine was a Russian emigré who settled in New York. Both were defining forces in 20th century culture. In merging traditional Russian technique with new world dynamism, Balanchine created a new style of “American” ballet. He changed the way we look at dance.

First of two programmes from the world-famous Bolshoi Ballet brings blazing energy and a cornucopia of male and female virtuoso dancing in the tumultuous, emotion-filled spectacle, The Flames of Paris.

With the French Revolution as background, this tale of action and romance was originally commissioned to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Russia’s own October Revolution, and intended to inspire the proletariat. It was Stalin’s favourite ballet. Rediscovered and revised by their former Artistic Director Alexei Ratmansky in 2008, this Soviet-era blockbuster has swiftly enthralled a new generation.

When Tsar Ivan the Terrible chooses Marfa as his new bride, a web of romantic and political intrigue brings dire consequences for her and everyone around her. Based on real events, this taut melodrama brims with passion, jealousy, potions and poisons. Its striking melodies, great arias, and grand subject matter make it a perfect fit for the Bolshoi’s brilliant soloists and resplendent orchestra and chorus.

Stirring and rich in drama, this 2014 Bolshoi production of the opera which originally premiered in 1899, is replete with gorgeous, multi-coloured, gold-embroidered costumes, and impressively lavish sets based on Fyodor Fedorovsky’s famous designs for an earlier, landmark, mid-20th century staging. It is The Tsar’s Bride in full glory.

Acclaimed at its 2012 premiere as a triumph of storytelling and design, Christopher Wheeldon has master-minded a fabulous and breathtaking co-production for Dutch National Ballet and San Francisco Ballet.

Respectful of tradition but firmly in touch with the 21st century in this contemporary interpretation, Wheeldon’s heroine takes charge of her own destiny in a production that delights at every level, for every age. Superbly performed choreography that is ‘bright and lyrical, elegant and humorous’ (The Times) complements sensational set and design by top Broadway talents Julian Crouch and Basil Twist. There are glamorous wigs and costumes galore, flying chairs, a magic tree, puppets and cinematic wizardry.

Four of the world’s top flamenco dancers with their singers and musicians join forces in this thrilling gala.

The all-star line-up showcases the very best interpreters of both traditional and modern styles. Antonio Canales is a classical flamenco hero, while the flamboyant Carlos Rodríguez has taken Spain by storm with his bold mix of contemporary dance and flamenco tradition. From the younger generation, the stunning Karime Amaya (grand-niece of legendary Carmen Amaya) and hot new star Jesús Carmona are already compared to the greatest artists.

Adapted from Puccini’s Opera of the same name, Australian choreographer Natalie Weir has transformed Turandot, a story of power, lust and revenge, into a visually stunning dramatic dance production. Accompanied by the original music, Weir’s choreography exhibits sensational and expressive dancing of The Hong Kong Ballet dancers resulting in a captivating spectacle which intrigues and beguiles audiences.

Turandot is a Princess with a glittering heart of ice who has for many years shunned the attention of men. Any man wishing to wed the Princess must successfully answer the three riddles she sets, and if they fail, they must die. Her coldness does nothing to deter her suitors, even though many before them have been ritually executed. Prince Calaf returns to the city from exile and falls in love with Turandot at first sight. In turn, he is adored from afar by Liu, his father’s loyal servant girl.

Based on a well-loved martial arts comic series by Hong Kong’s renowned comic book artist Ma Wing-shing, dance drama Storm Clouds brings memorable characters and their fantastical, imaginative world to life.

This explosive creative union of dance, theatre, music and comic arts is a coda for this comic book masterpiece, coinciding with the series finale's publication in 2014. Expect to be blown away by era-defining performances in this heartfelt tribute to Hong Kong’s popular culture.

Strength, courage and honour: China's legendary woman warrior.