"The Gambler" Ballet in three acts. Sevastopol State Opera and Ballet Theatre presents
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World premiere: 02 Sep 2026 Novosibirsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre The ballet *The Gambler*—set to premiere on the Bolshoi Theatre’s New Stage, presented by the Sevastopol State Opera and Ballet Theatre—marks the first-ever large-scale choreographic adaptation of Fyodor Dostoevsky’s novel of the same name. This production continues the Sevastopol Theatre’s tradition of commissioning new ballets based on masterpieces of world literature. Following productions such as *Polikushka* (based on the novella by Leo Tolstoy) and *Wuthering Heights* (based on the novel by Emily Brontë), the company now turns to the work of Dostoevsky, using dance to explore the contradictions of human nature, the intensity of passion, and the drama of moral choice. The project is supported by the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives. In this new production, choreographer Jonah Cook blends classical choreography with contemporary movement, creating an expressive stage language capable of conveying the characters' most subtle psychological states. To music of Johann Sebastian Bach, Antonio Vivaldi, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Henry Purcell, Tomaso Vitali, Charles Avison, Andrea Falconieri, Henri du Bailly, and Tomaso Albinoni CREDITS: Choreographer — Jonah Paul Cook SynopsisPROLOGUE At a German resort where life revolves around the casino, the characters of Dostoevsky’s novel come together. A retired General, ruined by debt, eagerly awaits news of his wealthy aunt’s death. He is counting on an inheritance that he plans to spend on his object of passion, Mlle Blanche. His stepdaughter Polina is under the influence of the French adventurer De Grieux. Alexei, the family tutor, is hopelessly in love with Polina, while the affluent Englishman Mr Astley, genuinely fascinated by her, prefers to keep his feelings hidden. At Polina’s request, Alexei goes to the casino to win money for her, unaware that this decision will change the fate of everyone involved. ACT I Visiting the casino for the first time, Alexei becomes immersed in an atmosphere of excitement where chance is the only law. An unexpected stroke of luck brings him a substantial win, which he unhesitatingly gives to Polina, revealing his feelings for her. Meanwhile, Mr Astley remains close to Polina without interfering in the situation, showing her genuine care and attention. Seeking to test Alexei’s devotion, Polina persuades him to commit a daring act that results in the young man losing his position and marks the beginning of his rapid downfall. ACT II The unexpected arrival of the Grandmother shatters the hopes of those who have already mentally disposed of her inheritance. Fascinated by gambling, she goes to the casino herself. Initially thrilled by a substantial win, the Grandmother gradually becomes a captive of the roulette table and eventually loses all the money she had brought with her on her long journey. The collapse of the General’s and De Grieux’s hopes unfolds alongside the inner drama of Polina and Alexei. Meanwhile, Mr Astley remains the only person motivated by no self-interest. He continues to care for Polina, trying to protect her from the impending catastrophe. ACT III After breaking with De Grieux, Polina finds herself in profound emotional turmoil. Determined to save the woman he loves, Alexei turns to roulette once again and wins a huge sum of money. But money can no longer restore the trust that has been lost. Polina rejects his help, realising that gambling has taken a stronger hold over him than love. Mr Astley takes responsibility for her, and his loyalty and nobility stand in stark contrast to Alexei’s self-destructive obsession. Alexei himself finally falls completely under the spell of gambling. Mlle Blanche appears at his side, attracted by his newfound wealth, while his passion for roulette gradually drives love, friendship and the hope of happiness out of his life. | "The Gambler" Ballet in three acts. Sevastopol State Opera and Ballet Theatre presents on the playbill | ||||||
