Mariinsky Theatre/ Gergiev
Rubinstein - The Demon
31 January 2009 / 19:00
Barbican Hall
Soloists, Orchestra and Chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre
Anton Rubinstein's opera The Demon was premiered in the Mariinsky Theatre in 1875 and was an immense success for the acclaimed pianist and composer, both in Russia and abroad. Based on a poem by Lermontov, it tells of a demon's ill-fated visit to the world.
Here is a chance to hear the superb soloists, orchestra and chorus of the Mariinsky Theatre under the devoted and energetic direction of the world renowned conductor Valery Gergiev in the sort of repertoire at which they excel.
Smelkov - The Brothers Karamazov
1 February 2009 / 19:00
Barbican Hall
UK premiere of a new opera first performed in St Petersburg in July.
Alexander Smelkov, born in 1950, is a St Petersburg-based composer - his relationship with Valery Gergiev goes back a long way: as a student the young Gergiev premiered Smelkov's First Symphony.
Commissioned by the Mariinsky Theatre, The Brothers Karamazov is based on Dostoevsky's influential and final novel. It follows in a fine tradition, both of Russian opera based on the works of master Russian novelists, and of works premiered at one of the world's most important and historic opera houses.
Plus: Pre-concert talk with Alexander Smelkov, 6pm.