
For the first time, the ballet Swan Lake was recreated in its entirety, magnificently and emotionally on the HBSO stage - Photo: PHUC HAI
The three tiers of the auditorium were packed with spectators. Each performance concluded to enthusiastic applause.
Along with that were gasps of admiration for the beautiful group performance of swans, or the extremely difficult ballet techniques of the two white swans Odette (artist Do Hoang Khang Ninh) and the black swan Odile (guest artist Chika Tatsumi from Japan).
The two nights of performances of the ballet Swan Lake by HBSO (choreographed by Norwegian choreographer Johanne Jakhelln Constant and directed artistically by Le Ha My, Director of HBSO) took place amidst such attentiveness and enjoyment from dance-loving audiences.
Enjoy a classic masterpiece in the heart of Saigon.
This performance also marks a special milestone: for the first time, Vietnamese audiences can fully enjoy the pure and magnificent beauty of Swan Lake performed by Vietnamese artists right at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House.
First performed in Russia in 1877, Swan Lake is one of the greatest ballets of all time, telling the tragic love story between Prince Siegfried and Princess Odette, who is cursed to be transformed into a swan.
In the hands of choreographer Johanne Jakhelln Constant, that story is retold in a modern, restrained yet emotionally resonant language.
Having been instrumental in the success of HBSO's The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and Coppélia , this time the female choreographer continues to create Swan Lake , reaching world ballet standards while still retaining a strong Vietnamese spirit.

Audiences had the opportunity to experience how Vietnamese artists approach and innovate upon the legacy of classical ballet - Photo: H.VY
The HBSO's ballet Swan Lake consists of three acts, lasting over two hours, and includes scenes of a ball, a nighttime lake, and a tragic ending.
Each performance has its own unique characteristics, but throughout is a harmonious blend of dance and music , costumes, lighting, setting... along with the dedication of the artists on stage.
In particular, the contrast between the pure white swan and the alluring black swan is vividly portrayed by artists Khang Ninh and Chika Tatsumi, creating a powerful impression of the opposition between two selves: innocence and darkness, love and deceit.

The black swan Odile captivated the audience with her masterful technique and mesmerizing presence - Photo: H.VY
From the legendary fouetté movements to the synchronized group scenes, Swan Lake captivates viewers until the very last moment of its climax.
In the end, many young people stayed to cheer on the artists, including young children who love dancing, proving the special appeal of this art form that might seem to have a "niche audience".
As a ballet teacher, audience member Lan Anh was moved: "I've been excited since watching the excerpt of the dance at the Autumn Melodies Festival, and I'm so happy to have 'hunted' for tickets to this performance."
The artists have captured the spirit of the swan princess yearning for freedom. This production is also very suitable for the HBSO stage. With the appeal of Swan Lake , I hope that more young people will come to see and appreciate the delicate beauty of ballet."

The sublime moment of the white swan Odette moved the audience - Photo: PHUC HAI
Proud to have reached the pinnacle of ballet.
Behind the two sold-out concerts lies a journey of many years of planning. Conductor Le Ha My, Director of HBSO, shared that the moment the familiar melody of Swan Lake rang out, he was so moved that he shed tears.
"It's a mix of emotions: nostalgia for Russia, where I lived and studied, and pride that HBSO has finally staged this masterpiece in Ho Chi Minh City."
"More than ballet, Swan Lake is an icon. To reach this pinnacle, our team overcame many difficulties in terms of personnel, finances, and facilities... Especially, the artists had to continuously practice intensely for many months," Lê Ha My confided.
But what he is most proud of is the collective effort and dedication of the entire team, from the outstanding artists of the HBSO ballet troupe to the young people who are still contemplating pursuing a career in the field.
After enduring exhausting days of training, the team's passion was rekindled, and they became even more enthusiastic and dedicated to their work.

The collaboration between artists from HBSO, the Ho Chi Minh City College of Dance, and Sasa Ballet resulted in synchronized and visually stunning group dance performances - Photo: H.VY
According to choreographer Phuc Hai, director of the HBSO ballet troupe, this version is the result of nearly half a year of hard work, perfecting everything from choreography to costumes, props, and lighting.
The most challenging aspect remains the human element, but everyone is striving to create a work that resonates with the general standards in the country and the region.
Playing the role of the white swan Odette, ballerina Do Hoang Khang Ninh expressed: "I am very proud and happy that the two nights of performances have concluded so completely and memorably."
After months of hard training, all the actors had their moments of brilliance and explosive performances on stage, receiving well-deserved recognition from the audience.

The role of Odette requires Khang Ninh to ensure precise technique, physical endurance, and the inner emotions of the white swan on stage - Photo: H.VY
Swan Lake also marks the return of Meritorious Artist Hoang Yen after a major surgery that almost prevented her from continuing her career. The female artist is proud that, despite facing many difficulties, HBSO finally made the Swan Lake dream a reality.
In her role as assistant choreographer, she shared that there are still many concerns regarding personnel and many details that need more time to refine. What she appreciates is that the Norwegian choreographer is always understanding and flexible in adjusting the ballet to best suit the conditions of the Vietnamese artists.
"We understand that challenges lie ahead, but once we've taken the first step, the path will become increasingly smoother. The important thing is to maintain faith and nurture the passion of the younger generation so that ballet continues to stand firm in the cultural life of the city," added conductor Le Ha My.

The ballroom scene impressed viewers with its dazzling dances and magnificent costumes.

The black swan's performance was met with cheers and applause from the audience.

The appearance of the two swans, one white and one black, adds drama to the ballet.

The audience was captivated by the swan ensemble performance.

The ballet Swan Lake is scheduled to have two more performances in early November.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/kiet-tac-ho-thien-nga-chay-ve-hbso-mo-them-suat-dien-20251014142038521.htm







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