International Ballet Theatre Features Russian Soloist, Evgeny Lushkin, in the Fanciful Ballet, Coppelia, June 3-5, 2005

International Ballet Theatre Features Russian Soloist, Evgeny Lushkin, in the Fanciful Ballet, Coppelia, June 3-5, 2005

KIRKLAND, Wash., May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Ballet Theatre (IBT), under the direction of Kirov Ballet master teacher and world-renowned choreographer, Vera Altunina, will present the classical, comedy ballet, Coppelia, at Meydenbauer Theater June 3-5, 2005. Coppelia was first performed at the Paris Opera in 1870, and has since retained its tremendous popularity throughout Europe, Russia, and the United States.

Evgeny Lushkin, dancing the leading role of Franz, came to the International Ballet Theatre in 2004. Prior to joining IBT, Mr. Lushkin was a member of the American Ballet Theater and a principal dancer with the St. Petersburg Ballet, the Russian State Ballet (Moscow), and the Columbia Classical Ballet (South Carolina). Earlier in his career, he trained with master teachers Andrey Sacharov and Vladimir Malachov. Mr. Lushkin graces the stage with remarkable athleticism and an elegance that evokes deep emotion and imagination.

"It is difficult to imagine the world of ballet without Coppelia. With all its mischief, humor, elegance, and robust national flavor, Coppelia is one of the most enjoyed ballets, by audiences young and old, of modern times."

Coppelia, "The Girl with Enamel Eyes," is a mime-ballet, originally choreographed by Arthur Saint-Leon with music by Leo Delibes. It is a humorous, yet moving story about love -- seen through the eyes of a young, engaged couple and the heart of a lonely toy maker who dreams of making a doll with a soul. The playful story takes place in the storybook village of Olympia, Poland where a clever young girl (Swanilda), is surprised to discover her fiance (Franz) flirting with a beautiful "girl" on a balcony. Swanilda's jealousy grows until she discovers that the girl is really a lovely, life-sized doll created by Dr. Coppelius. Swanilda conjures a mischievous plan to teach Franz a lesson that ultimately leads to their touching reconciliation.

This classic love story offers wonder and humor for all ages. Younger audiences will be amused by the beautiful costumes and silly antics of the life-sized doll dancers. More mature audiences will be amused by the irony of the love story, the technical ability of the dancers, and the artistry reflecting diverse cultures and traditions from around the world. It is easy to understand why Coppelia has long been among the world's most loved ballets.

Tickets for Coppelia are currently available by calling 425-284-0444 or via www.ticketforus.com. Tickets are $15 for children, $18 for seniors, and $21 for adults. Performances open at Meydenbauer Theater in Bellevue, Washington:

Friday, June 3 - 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 4 - 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 5 - 2:00 p.m.

About the International Ballet Theatre

The International Ballet Theatre (IBT) www.interballettheatre.org (website under construction), located in Kirkland, WA, is committed to the preservation of classical ballet repertoire through the presentation of full-length productions that reflect traditional as well as original choreography. IBT performances inspire imagination, and an appreciation of the performing arts, through the strength and beauty of dance. Performances are richly entertaining for audiences of all ages. IBT was founded in 2001 by artistic director, Vera Altunina, former dancer with the Kirov Ballet, St. Petersburg, and renowned choreographer. IBT is affiliated with the International School of Classical Ballet (ISCB) offering classical ballet in Russian tradition, modern dance, character, jazz, and tap. ISCB's professional program is open by audition only. For more information, visit www.interballetschool.com, 507 Sixth Street South, Kirkland, WA 98033, 425-822-7694.

Source: International Ballet Theatre

CONTACT: Heidi Tucker, +1-425-828-0135, or heiditucker@comcast.net, for
International Ballet Theatre

Web site: http://www.interballetschool.com/

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