A remarkable meeting dedicated to the world premiere of the ballet SLEZA took place at the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography. The meeting was held jointly with the international dance festival Ballet Globe.

The event was marked by the participation of stars of the world ballet scene: prima ballerina of the Mariinsky Theater Diana Vishneva, as well as outstanding choreographers Sol Leon and Paul Lightfoot, artists Stefan Jeromski, Jorge Nozal and Roger Van Der Poel.

The meeting was hosted by Altynai Asylmuratova, People’s Artist of the Russian Federation and Artistic Director of the Astana Opera Academy and Theater, who introduced the guests with warmth and respect.

Special attention was paid to the main idea and meaning of the ballet “SLEZA”. The speakers shared that the work is based on life experience and personal experiences, which makes it especially touching and meaningful. The production evolves around universal themes: love in its most diverse manifestations – maternal and paternal love, marital love, passion for life and profession, and spiritual love.

Choreographers Sol Leon and Paul Lightfoot, known for their long-term collaboration with the Netherlands Dance Theater (NDT), shared their inspiration and creative process. Their tandem, now in its 35th year, is recognized worldwide. The artists and choreographers noted that despite differences in nationalities and cultural traditions, they have found a common language and there is a true spirit of art and friendship in the team.

The event was held in an atmosphere of open dialog, where the students of the Academy had a unique opportunity to ask questions to the guests.

The meeting ended with dancing, laughter and a group photo capturing the momentous day.

Students and participants of the event took away with them not only knowledge, but also inspiration, which will undoubtedly influence their further creative development.