The Russian ballet is a trademark of the culture. The dance may not have originated in the country but it is this nation that took the ballet to new heights. The first ballet school was opened in 1738 in St. Petersburg. The ballet became so loved that even aristocrats learned how to dance.
Some of the nation’s most notable works are “Swan Lake” and “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky. Both are beloved all over the world and if you haven’t heard or seen them, go ahead and indulge yourself. You won’t regret it.
This is Vera Shpakovskaya.
This Russan ballerina is eight years old in this video but don’t scoff. These Russian ballerinas know their stuff. This is her Esmeralda variation. And we’re guessing it’s got something to do with that tambourine and Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel, Notre-Dame de Paris.
This has got the feels of a Disney film or a prelude to a nice action series. Vera in a striking red outfit kicks and twirls all while hitting certain parts of her body with that tambourine to go along with the music.
Is she really just eight?
Her movements are both soft and powerful, with a grace of a professional who seems to have been dancing for ages. The way she stretches her arms and legs along to the melody of the music is mesmerizing and truly stunning to watch.
Just look at the way she balances on her toes and the way she moves herself forward on them. It’s mind boggling to think how much that hurts. The strength and the balance required to pull it off is not for the weak of heart.
Among the many Russian admirers and comments is one in English,
“Her glorious expression of dance reflects the pure beauty & grace of a butterfly in flight. It’s incredible she’s only 8 years old, already advanced to pointe & able to manage a full performance of this demanding choreography. I’m wishing her abundant Blessings of love!”
It really is poetic, ballet. It’s like the perfect song at the right time at the loveliest moment of the day.
Vera is so light on her feet. She smiles at her audience at times before launching into one of her amazing pirouettes. She even dances on one feet while her other leg is held high in the air executing kicks so high it hurts you when watching it.
Vera is фантастика.
The secret here is that Russia infused the ballet with their own folk traditions. Theatrical life has always been high in the country and has had massive support during the Soviet period. The leaders enjoyed the dances.
The traditions were preserved by the leaders.
The theaters have gone boldly forward post-Soviet era. Hundreds of theaters opened in the country and without censorship, were able to move away from political topics and instead focused on classical and psychological themes. Gone were the days of having to please the leaders. It’s now the audience and the world who get to enjoy Russia’s finest.
And certainly, Vera Shpakovskaya will be at the forefront of this new revolution. She’s ten now and that’s good news for everyone. She’s got a long journey ahead of her. One she can tiptoe and pirouette on. The world will be watching.
Watch this Russian ballerina’s beautiful dance in the video below!
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