A Contemporary Take on Cossack Opera
The Odesa National Academic Theater of Opera and Ballet has premiered a refreshed version of the opera «Zaporozhets beyond the Danube», offering a modern perspective on this classical piece.
Details of the modern production
The new rendition employs minimalist sets alongside innovative lighting solutions. Interactive video elements transport the audience from the late 18th-century villages to contemporary times.
The costumes designed for the performance blend traditional Ukrainian attire with modern silhouettes and materials. The design team moved away from stereotypical garments, creating sleek outfits that reflect the Cossack spirit through a contemporary lens.
The choreography maintains the energy of folk dances while discarding clichés and stereotypical movements. Original dance sequences combine elements of contemporary ballet with ethnic plastic arts, highlighting the patriotic themes of the opera.
The project's main goal is to convey the history of the Cossacks and their fight for freedom to modern audiences while preserving the authenticity of the original. The performance emphasizes the relevance of independence and courage in today's world.
