I had the incredible opportunity to attend the return of the celebrated Varna International Ballet and Orchestra during their UK tour in 2025. After their breathtaking debut in 2023, I was excited to see them perform as they brought beloved classics like Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Romeo and Juliet to life.
The company, founded in 1947, is renowned for its award-winning soloists and magnificent corps de ballet. Their reputation for delivering performances of the highest quality has captivated audiences in Bulgaria and abroad for decades, and I could feel the artistry and passion that has made them so beloved.
Led by Artistic Director Daniela Dimova and Music Director and Chief Conductor Peter Tuleshkov, the Varna International Ballet truly delivered a magical experience. The performances were mesmerising, and it was clear that they intended to enchant both ballet newcomers and seasoned balletomanes alike.
The tour kicked off in Manchester on 2 January 2025 and spans 20 venues across the UK, culminating in Northampton on 5 March.
Swan Lake truly lived up to its reputation as the greatest romantic ballet of all time. Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score, combined with choreography by legends like Marius Petipa, Lev Ivanov, Sergey Bobrov, and Natalia Matus-Marchuk, created a visual masterpiece. From the grandeur of the Palace ballroom to the serene, moonlit lake where the swans glided in perfect formation, the tragic romance and breathtaking visuals were really something to behold
This was my first visit to the ballet and I really did not know what to expect. Would I understand the plot without words? I needn’t have worried. I really enjoyed my time with Varna International Ballet and I can’t wait to see what they bring next.
You can catch them performing across the UK. Check ag.live for dates and times.
Photographs by Elliott Franks
I was kindly invited to see Swan Lake by Varna International ballet for review purposes.
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