Spartacus (Vladimir Vasiliev-Natalia Bessmertnova-Maris Liepa, Bolshoi Ballet 1977)

Spartacus is the Bolshoi doing what the Bolshoi does best: interpreting contemporary works whose thematic origins are classic.

This ballet is of a different character than most--it is a dark work. It is about slavery and Spartacus' (Vladimir Vasiliev) courageous fight for freedom. His adversary is Crassus (Maris Liepa), the oppressive military leader. These two male leads are a contrast of styles; Vasiliev dances classical steps, whereas Liepa dances neo-classical ones. The two ballerinas are a contrast of qualities. Aegina (Nina Timofeyeva) is Crassus' concubine; she is cold, lustful, deceptive. Phrygia (Natalia Bessmertnova) is Spartacus' lover, and she is fragile and caring. All four of the lead dancers turn in excellent performances, and the Bolshoi corps is also strong. The costumes include a lot of swords, shields, helmets and other military items. The musical score by Aram Khachaturian effectively brings out the various emotions involved.