The legend returned to the stage of the main theater of Karelia

On the stage of the Musical Theatre of Karelia, the premiere of the ballet “Sampo” by choreographer Kirill Simonov to the music of Moscow composer Ephraim Podgaits took place. The ballet, based on the epic “Kalevala”, 25 years later returned to the stage in a modern reading, which I really liked: incredible fantasy costumes, reincarnated in the fabulous beauty of old Louhi, the brave Väinemöinen, Ilmarinen and Lemminkäinen and her own version of the Sampo mill – a glowing ball.

When the first version of the ballet Sampo to the music of Helmer Sinisalo was released 67 years ago, it was a national holiday. The ballet glorified Karelia far beyond its borders. And the music of the famous Adagio from the ballet of 1959 almost became the official anthem of Karelia. I would have supported this idea if I had lived at the time. I think the new version of Sampo can also be taken on tour in both capitals. He's definitely worthy of attention.

To create a new version of the ballet, the team of the Musical Theater went 5 years, and then everything happened. You know, I really trust Kirill Simonov. Everything he does is worthy of the highest praise. We still remember the premiere of his ballet Alice. Congratulations to all involved on the premiere. We did it! The return of the legend took place.