Winter Ball:
Stars of World Ballet on the Stage of the Latvian National Opera

On December 30, the Latvian National Opera will host a new project — Winter Ball, a grand gala concert featuring premiers and principal dancers from the leading European theaters. This unique event is being organized as part of a personal project and promises to be a true demonstration of exceptional mastery. The audience will witness performances by outstanding artists, each of whom has left a significant mark on the international stage.

Lucia Lacarra, an absolute legend of world ballet, whose performances are often described as "poetry in motion," will take the stage. The New York Times named her "one of the most expressive and emotional ballerinas of our time." Her partner will be Matthew Adam Golding, former principal dancer of The Royal Ballet and Dutch National Ballet, known for his powerful stage charisma.
Also performing is Iana Salenko, principal dancer of Berlin State Ballet, renowned for her flawless technique and airy jumps. The Guardian has described her as "one of the most technically precise ballerinas of today."
Among the participants is Anna Ol, principal dancer of Dutch National Ballet, who has won over international audiences with her remarkable balance between refined classical style and powerful emotional expression. Special attention is drawn to another star of the Dutch National Ballet — Young Gyu Choi, who quickly won the hearts of audiences. His performances are always noted for their energy and brightness, making him a favorite of ballet critics.
Alejandro Virelles, former principal of The Cuban National Ballet, and now of the English National Ballet, is distinguished by his unmatched elegance and depth of acting mastery.
Toon Lobach, one of the most talented young artists in the genre of contemporary dance, represents a new generation of dancers who skillfully combine modern choreography with classical heritage. He captivates the audience with his flexibility and fluidity.
Japanese star Motomi Kiyota stands out for his impeccable technique and unique ability to blend classical and modern productions, making him highly sought after on leading ballet stages.
David Soares, principal dancer of Staatsballett Berlin, impresses the audience with his high jumps and strong stage energy. Each of his performances is a display of passion and strength, as repeatedly noted by critics.
Riho Sakamoto, another principal of the renowned Staatsballett Berlin and one of the most refined Japanese ballerinas of today, attracts attention with her mastery in classical roles. Her performances are consistently praised for the lightness of her movements and exceptional grace.
Shale Wagman, a dancer from Paris Opera Ballet, has quickly gained recognition as one of the brightest rising stars. The Telegraph highlighted his "innovative approach and unique style," which distinguishes him from other dancers of his generation.
TatianaMelnik, prima ballerina of Hungarian State Opera Ballet, whose grace and control in every movement make each of her performances a true event. And, of course, the evening would not be complete without the star of the Latvian National Ballet and audience favorite, now a principal dancer with Boston Ballet — Evelina Godunova.

Program

I I A C T

1. Finding Lights
(Choreography by Edwaaed Liang, music by Vivaldi)
Lucia Lacarra and Matthew Golding
Worldwide Superstars

2. Snow Pas de deux from Nutckracker
(Choreography by Wayne Eagling and Tamás Solymosi,
music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky)
Tatyjana Melnik and Motomi Kiyota
Hungarian National Ballet

3. Sky Breaking, Clouds Falling
(Choreography T. Lobach, music by Mason Lindahl)
Toon Lobach
Nederlands Dans Theater

4. Pas de deux Flames of Paris
(Choreography Vasily Vainonen, music by Boris Asayev)
Evelina Godunova and Shale Wagman
Boston Ballet / Paris Opera Ballet

5. The Dying swan
(Choreography Michel Descombey,
music: Elaboration on the original by Camille Saint-Saens)
Alejandro Virelles
English National Ballet

6. Nutcracker Pas de deux
(Choreography Marius Petipa, music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky)
Riho Sakamoto and David Soares
Staatsballett Berlin

7. Don Quixote Pas de deux
(Choreography Marius Petipa, music by Ludwig Minkus)
Iana Salenko and Motomi Kiyota
Staatsballet Berlin/ Hungarian National Balle

I A C T

1.«Snow Storm»
(Choreography by Yuri Possokhov, music by G. Sviridov)
Lucia Lacarra and Matthew Golding
Worldwide superstar

2. Esmeralda Pas de deux
(Choreography Marius Petipa, music by Cesare Puni)
Evelina Godunova and Young Gyu Choi
Dutch National Ballet/Boston Ballet

3. Step Addition duet
(Choreography by Sebastien Galtier,
music by Rene Aubry)
Riho Sakamoto and David Soares
Staatsballett Berlin

4. Black Swan Pas de deux
(Choreography Marius Petipa,
music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky)
Kseniia Shevtsova and Alejandro Virelles
Bayerishes Staatsballett/ English National Ballet

5. Digital Silk
(Choreography by T. Lobach, music by Eartheater)
Toon Lobach
Nederlands Dans Theater

6. Pas de deux from Le Corsaire
(Choreography Marius Petipa, music by Adolphe Adam)
Tatyjana Melnik and Shale Wagman
Hungarian National Ballet/ Paris Opera Ballet