Swan Lake Soars in Minneapolis with International Ballet Stars
On Tuesday, November 18, the Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis transformed into a world of enchantment as Classical Arts Entertainment presented a full-scale production of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, performed by an extraordinary cast of international ballet stars. From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was swept into a realm of breathtaking artistry and emotional depth.
This performance was nothing short of spectacular. Featuring over 200 custom-designed scenery pieces, the stage became a living canvas, perfectly complementing the sweeping melodies of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Every detail—from the opulent palace scenes to the shimmering lakeside backdrop—immersed viewers in the timeless tale of love, betrayal, and redemption.
The choreography, rooted in the classic style of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov (for you ballet nerds), delivered all the beloved moments ballet aficionados crave. The Dance of the Little Swans was executed with precision and charm, while Odile’s legendary 32 fouetté turns drew audible gasps and thunderous applause. These technical feats were matched by the dancers’ emotional expressiveness, making the story resonate beyond its steps.
The evening’s magic was brought to life by four principal dancers whose performances were nothing short of extraordinary. Sergei Zdanschi of Moldova embodied the noble grace of Prince Siegfried, while Ilona Baitler from Ukraine captivated the audience in the demanding dual role of Odette and Odile, balancing elegance with fiery radiance. Adding a burst of energy and humor to the court scenes, Oleksii Kniazkov, also from Ukraine, shone as the spirited Jester, and Diana Stetsenko, another Ukrainian talent, brought depth and refinement to the role of Gerda, enriching the ensemble with her poise.
What really brought the show together was the international ensemble, with elite performers hailing from Italy, France, Ukraine, Japan, Moldova, Georgia, Great Britain, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. Their collective artistry brought a richness to the stage, reminding us that dance is a universal language.
This Minneapolis performance was part of a North American tour, giving audiences across the continent a rare opportunity to experience Swan Lake in its most authentic and opulent form. Whether you’re a seasoned ballet enthusiast or experiencing Swan Lake for the first time, this one-night-only event was a rare gift—a chance to witness one of the world’s most beloved ballets in one of Minneapolis’s most iconic venues.
