Like Russian ballets? Prefer an Irish jig? In this Denis Berko production, young dancers combine both – the art and strength of ballet with a foot-tapping Irish dance. The tune is “Walking on Stones”, though you may think it is “Walking on HOT stones” since the dancers appear to leap from one hot step to the next.
These skilled young ladies, along with the accompanying orchestra, are part of the Loktev Song and Dance Ensemble. Founded in 1937 at the request of composer Alexander V. Aleksandrov, the world-renowned Russian ensemble and school bears the name of the famous musician and professor of the Moscow Conservatory – Vladimir Sergeevich Loktev.
The talented student body can participate in the choir, orchestra, dance or choreography teams. Since its inception, more than fifty thousand children have participated in the school’s worldwide performances. Though they choose a variety of careers as adults, each are proud to have been called a “Loktevian”.
This accomplished group of young people has received many famous awards, including the World Peace Council medal. Probably the most unusual award (requested by Russian cosmonaut, Gherman Titov) was the International Certificate, which honored them by using the name “Loktev Ensemble” for a new star in the constellation Lyra.
Perfect Precision
Performing at the P.I. Tchaikovsky Concert Hall in Moscow, Russia, the dancers enter the stage one at a time, using their best fancy footwork. Attired in green costumes and applying a perfectly coordinated technique, these angels seem to float across the floor.
Each dancer has a brief solo opportunity, taking their turn in center-ring, while demonstrating their favorite leap, kick, or spin – sometimes, a combination of all. It’s surprising that they land so gracefully. How did the youngest ones even have enough years to practice for this level of perfection?
Ballerina attitude in all its glory
Exuding confidence as they leap and spin, these young ladies are remarkably well trained. Facial expressions display their level of concentration, and you can see this is serious business for them.
Even when on tip-toes, they are able to maintain their chins up and heads remarkably steady while they effortlessly move their lower bodies.
Filled with high steps and fast moves
As the student orchestra flawlessly plays behind them, the young dancers leap toward the audience with high-stepping precision in perfectly spaced pairs. Look at how high they can jump off the floor without using their arms for lift. How is that possible?
Fancy twists and unified head motion
Moving to center stage, while turning their heads with a side-to-side military-like snap, each young dancer is mesmerizing. You would think their necks would hurt in the morning, along with all other body parts.
It’s fun to watch their energetic performance, not missing a beat. Surely, they must be breathing hard, but it doesn’t show. In fact, they don’t show they’re breathing at all. How do they do it?
Synchronization at its best
Six of the girls execute a ballet move, and in one synchronized motion they leap inches above the floor in perfect steadiness. jumping in the air, and landing while moving forward. Of course, this intriguing step is perfectly timed to the music and no beat is missed.
So much to see! Even though this spellbinding video may have you wanting to watch again and again to catch the intricacies of each movement, don’t try this at home!
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Sources:
YouTube/Антон Глоба
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