Ballet
Anna Karenina
Anna Karenina is a dramatic story ballet based on the famous novel by Leo Tolstoy. Because so many choreographers have created their own versions, what you see can change a lot from one production to the next. It is a grown up story of love and heartbreak rather than a light fairy tale.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Varies by production, including Rodion Shchedrin and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in different versions
- Choreographer
- Several choreographers, including Boris Eifman and Alexei Ratmansky
- Premiere
- Varies; several productions staged from the 1970s onward
- Structure
- Varies by production
The story
The ballet is based on Tolstoy's novel about a married woman named Anna who falls deeply in love with a young officer. Their relationship goes against the rules of the society around her and leads to painful choices. As pressure and judgment build, Anna's world begins to fall apart. Different choreographers, such as Boris Eifman and Alexei Ratmansky, tell the story in their own ways, so the staging, music, and details vary. It is known as an emotional, dramatic work aimed at older audiences.
What Anna Karenina is famous for
- based on Tolstoy's novel
- many different choreographic versions
- a dramatic, emotional lead role
- a grown up love story
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there one official version of Anna Karenina?
No. Several choreographers, including Boris Eifman and Alexei Ratmansky, have made their own versions, so productions can differ a lot.
What is the ballet based on?
It is based on Leo Tolstoy's novel Anna Karenina.
Is it suitable for young children?
It is an emotional, mature love story, so it is usually a better fit for older audiences.
Who composed Anna Karenina?
Anna Karenina was composed by Varies by production, including Rodion Shchedrin and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in different versions.
How long is Anna Karenina?
Anna Karenina is a varies by production ballet; running time varies by production.