It is all of the splendor which has mesmerized ballet audiences for over a century, plus a bit more. It delights with new as well as time-honored Russian traditions. Gorgeous detailed hand-painted sets and added choreography accent the production. Radiant costumes following designs originally envisioned by the great theater masters enlighten further.

Choreographer Nadezhda Kalinina (Mariinsky Theatre, Omsk State Music Theatre, Teatro Lirico) lovingly retouches the oldest St. Petersburg version of the ballet. With a new prologue, she offers an explanation for the wrath of evil sorcerer Rothbart, undoubtedly leaving the audience flushed with emotion.
Equally fascinating is the work of young, accomplished designer Sergei Novikov (Mariinsky Theatre, Omsk State Music Theatre, St. Petersburg State Music Hall Theatre) who has perfected not only exquisite new sets but also 150 gorgeous costumes that bring fresh representation to this timeless ballet.