Roman Lazík gives a riveting performance as Man in the popular ballet Requiem.photo: K. Marenčinová
The Slovak National Theatre will play host to a pair of powerful ballets on Tuesday, March 7. The first performance is Carl Orff's Carmina Burana, and the second is Requiem, the popular ballet set to the dark, dramatic tones of Verdi.
Carmina Burana examines man's existence and role in society. While many of the dancers in the chorus stand out technically and artistically, soloist Jozef Dolinský, who dances the part of Man, fails to match the drama of the music. Juraj Vasilenko is far more convincing as the raging He, a character full of envy and malice who is out to destroy Man.
The second ballet, Requiem, is the highlight of the programme. Choreographed by Ondrej Šoth, the ballet deals with man's constant struggle with his fear of death. The main character is danced by young Roman Lazík, who moves viewers with his vulnerable facial expressions.
Igor Holováč gives a terrifying performance as Death. Grinning at the audience, Holováč succeeds in showing the viewer his world of fear. Against Death stands the character Life, gracefully danced by Holováč's wife Irina Čierniková. With her motherly charisma and graceful movements, she and Holovač make a striking couple.
Tickets: 50-150 Sk. Starts at 19:00. Slovenské Narodné Divadlo (Slovak National Theatre), Hviezdoslavovo námestie 1. Tel: 5443 3083.
