Raisa Struchkova - Solo from 'Don Quixote'

A sparkling solo from 'Don Quixote' from past Bolshoi ballerina Raisa Struchkova.

The dancing reminds me a bit of one of Frederick Ashton's comments about Anna Pavlova whom he saw dancing in Lima, Peru where he lived as a boy.

He said that when she danced every part of her body was alive and with the music.

Raisa Struchkova's performance also seems to me to capture something of what Alexandra Danilova was encouraging Leslie Brown to achieve in this same solo in the film 'The Turning Point'.

She said 'You should 'sparkle and shine!'

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Raisa Struchkova
• Don Quixote
• ballet
• Bolshoi ballerina
• Bolshoi Theatre
• Anna Pavlova

[Lissbirds]

The orchestra can barely keep up with her. :)

[nickwallacesmith]

hi Lissbirds - that's a very good way to put it! :>>

[xjackybx]

wish i could feel like that during pointe class..:/

[nickwallacesmith]

@xjackybx - yes, she is totally alive - all electric energy!

[judyanddavid]

What wonderful, vivacious dancing. I think it takes real artistry to make that 'St Petersburg Spanish' come alive and seem absolutely fresh and joyful. Many thanks for posting another gem.

[nickwallacesmith]

@judyanddavid - isn't she totally alive - down to the tips of her fingers and toes - it's what made this a 'must post' piece of film

[nickwallacesmith]

@cubanmiamiboy - sorry it was a bolshoi performance!

[nickwallacesmith]

hi cubanmiamiboy - aren't they! shows up the clunky bourrees of so many other dancers - and she has a vitality that makes the expression live - not just a dead classical exercise

[cubanmiamiboy]

Yes.Nick..and her bourrees are just to die for...!!! Pure liquid.

[nickwallacesmith]

hi cubanmiamiboy - yes - so dancers have 'dead' arms acompared with the rest of their limbs