Muscat: The Royal Opera House Muscat hosted the renowned Xi’An Acrobatic Troupe of China for their mesmerising performance of Swan Lake on April 18 and 20.
Marking its 20th anniversary, the production captivated sold-out audiences both evenings with its breathtaking choreography and graceful ballet sequences. Pioneered of the adaptation of “ballet on shoulders” for Swan Lake, China’s Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe fascinated audiences, drawing smiles, and creating awe-inspiring moments.
This rendition of the classical ballet, set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic music, offered a fresh perspective, blending stunning choreography, intricate costumes, and innovative staging, creating an enchanting spectacle.
Unique to this production by China’s Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe is its groundbreaking "ballet on shoulders" adaptation, a first in the ballet's 147-year history.
Building upon its award-winning 2008 World Tour, this anniversary production promised and delivered a more spectacular experience, incorporating over 100 distinct skills to captivate and challenge audiences.
Infusing elements of both the ancient Orient and the West, Swan Lake by the Xi’an Acrobatic Troupe delivers a thrilling and visually stunning experience.
The timeless tale of a cursed princess transformed into a graceful swan, and her redemption through true love's declaration by a foreign prince, unfolds through a seamless blend of elegant ballet and awe-inspiring acrobatics.
Artistic Director, Zhang Quan expressed the troupe's joy in showcasing their Acrobatic Swan Lake fusion in Oman for the first time: "We are deeply honoured to debut our performance in Oman, bringing Acrobatic Swan Lake, a captivating fusion of Western Classical Ballet and mesmerising Chinese Acrobatic Arts, to the prestigious stage of the Royal Opera House Muscat. Our aim is to foster cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding, thereby enriching the realms of art, culture, and economy for both nations.”
Following their Oman tour, the Xi’An Acrobatic Troupe will grace Sadler’s Wells for a limited run in June 2024, continuing to demonstrate the transformative power of the performing arts in transcending cultural barriers and fostering connections through creative expression.
In the upcoming weeks, the Royal Opera House Muscat will continue to dazzle audiences with a diverse array of theatrical and acrobatic performances. From the rhythmic theatrics of the award-winning show Stomp! (25, 26, 27 April) to the captivating Cirque Eloise's Cirkopolis (3,4,5 May), audiences in Muscat can anticipate a season filled with unforgettable experiences.
For more information and reservations, visit the ROHM website, app or contact the opera house’s box office.