This was an inspired performance of Nikiya from Svetlana Zakharova. There are many videos of her in what is arguably her best role, but this is certainly one her finest performances. A magical evening in February of 2008.

With her are Maria Allash as Gamzatti and Nikolai Tsiskaridze as Solor, both in splendid form. The Bronze Idol is danced by Morikhiro Ivata, and it would be hard to better the three “Shadows”: Ekaterina Krysanova, Natalia Osipova and Anna Nikulina.

Nikiya’s Death – Svetlana Zakharova:

Shadow Variation – Natalia Osipova:

Final Pas de deux & Variations – Svetlana Zakharova & Nikolai Tsiskaridze: