Photo Credit: Cheryl Mann

“Anna Karenina” received a standing ovation at its world premiere!

The audience fell in love with Yuri Possokhov’s dance interpretation of the beloved classic, where dancers Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez portrayed star-crossed lovers Anna and Vronsky. Their on-stage chemistry was electric! From the first bewitching dance to their eventual cohabitation,  it was hard to believe these two were not a couple in real life. However, the gut-wrenching heartbreak of Anna’s infidelity and the eternal separation from her family resonated through the Auditorium Theatre.

Anais Bueno and Yoshihisa Arai’s characters, Kitty and Levin, served as a drastic contrast to the main couple. Levin’s devotion to Kitty is evident from the very beginning, and their dance was a delight to witness. Even though Kitty appeared to be initially swayed by Vronsky, she eventually welcomed Levin with open arms and the pair enjoyed the simple, country life together. I loved their portrayal of a monogamous relationship built on honesty. The pair’s joyful choreography erased the immense sadness from previous scenes. They set couple goals!

Photo Credit: Cheryl Mann

The pros and cons of the performance was as simple as Kitty and Levin’s country life. I loved the period clothing and group dance scenes. The parties were so inviting it almost felt like we could join in. As always, everyone’s dancing  was superb, while Yuri Possokhov’s choreography is engaging. Also, vocalist Lindsay Metzger’s operatic singing was magical. The only thing I would have changed was the love scene. Even though it is done tastefully, I wold have preferred them hint at their affair throughout the performance, and cut the lengthy love scene out.

Photo Credit: Cheryl Mann

If you love romantic tearjerkers, “Anna Karenina” was tailor-made for you. It runs thru February 24th at the Auditorium Theatre in Chicago.

A Special Thanks to The Silverman Group for the press passes and  photos.