photo: Stuttgart Ballet

Many of the versions of Swan Lake before John Cranko had happy endings, in which the music by Tchaikovsky was freely arranged. John Cranko focused on Tchaikovsky's score in which he saw dramatic story of tragic prince and princess rather than a happy ending. Cranko's version caused a sensation when it was premiered in 1963, giving a significant influence to choreographers such as Rudolf Nureyev and Erik Bruhn who later created their own versions.

Not only the storyline but choreography successfully visualizes the music. The national dances in the third act are ones of the highlights. Sublime sets and dresses by Jürgen Rose reinforce the dramatic impact of the ballet. Having inherited the legacy of John Cranko, the dancers of The Stuttgart Ballet will present the heart of Cranko's dramatic Swan Lake without stint.