Romantic duet between two stars

Hey, dear readers!

Imagine the Gallus Hall, almost 1600 people holding their breath in complete silence. She and he take the stage; Svetlana Zakharova, prima ballerina of the Bolshoi Theatre, and her life (and artistic) partner, the brilliant violinist Vadim Repin. Together they create not just a classical performance, but a story that sucks you in.

The evening's programme was a mix of ballet and music that is hard to imagine until you experience it. From Monti, Tchaikovsky, Piazzolla and John Williams to more intimate moments where tango, meditation and Swan's death intertwined to create a multi-dimensional artistic experience.

The hall was packed to the rafters. They even added extra seats above the orchestra pit, making it clear: this was no ordinary concert or performance. This was an event. And yes, a cultural highlight that could not be ignored.

The highlight of the evening? Without a doubt, the death of Swan. A scene that literally takes your breath away. Zaharova was no longer a dancer at that moment. She became the swan. A dying elegance, a movement that touched something greater, almost eternity. Her control over her body was so perfect that I still think about it today: How is it even possible for a human being to float like that? She was accompanied on the harp by local master Maria Gamboz Gradišnik, who, together with Repin, created an unforgettable musical background for this act. The Zahara's clothes were an art in themselves. I think every girl dreams of wearing something so magical at least once in her life.

Repin once again proved why he is one of the best violinists of his time. Each of the most difficult passages sounded effortless, as if the violin was speaking to him of its own accord. For me, he is without a doubt one of those idols who impress you not only with their technical perfection, but with their unlimited range of sound colours.

This evening was particularly special because it was not just about Zaharova and Repin. Together with them, Ensemble Dissonance, a chamber string orchestra, completely without a conductor, created a soft, cohesive ground that connected like breath with the soloists and the dance. Special mention must also be made of concertmaster Benjamin Ziervogel, whose powerful and extremely present sound occasionally took the lead and easily filled even the furthest corners of the hall.

In Tango (A. Piazzolla), Mak Grgić was the soloist on guitar, with a double bassist and a violinist, who together created a special energy. The tension in the air, the exciting atmosphere, all this further fuelled the duet of Zaharova and Artemi Belyakov, who literally jumped to the rhythm of the live tango.

This evening was not just a concert, not just a ballet performance. It was proof that music and movement together can create something that stays with us long after the last applause. Svetlana Zakharova and Vadim Repin did not just perform, they shared their soul and passion with us. And that's the best art can give you.

Let music guide your heart, dear readers!

Laura Bartelj