A Russian Ballet Enthusiast's Thoughts on Boris Eifman [guest post]

Chicago audiences are very lucky to be able to see the work of visionary Russian choreographer Boris Eifman when he brings his ballet to perform Don Quixote, or Fantasies of a Madman at the Auditorium Theatre on April 21 and 23.

Often, Russian dance companies are known for their virtuosic productions of classical pieces, such as Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty. Mr. Eifman’s company, however, gives Americans a different taste of Russian ballet ― he puts a contemporary spin on well-known stories, giving his ballets a fresh, modern appeal.

Boris Eifman

Mr. Eifman pushes boundaries by using minimalist sets that perfectly compliment the choreography to communicate just what he’s trying to say. The works are avante garde, but they are also elegant and sophisticated, which keeps them accessible to a wide audience.
Just because Eifman’s ballets are modern doesn’t mean they’re not masterfully performed. All of the dancers in his company are stunningly beautiful and have impeccable technique, making this company a joy to watch.

It is also personally gratifying to me to have Mr. Eifman visit the United States because he is from my hometown of St. Petersburg. Although I never had the opportunity to see his company perform when I was a child growing up there, I have seen the Eifman Ballet several times when I have made trips back home, and their works are always moving and memorable.

Two years ago, the last time the Eifman Ballet performed at the Auditorium Theatre, I had the pleasure of hosting a pre-performance reception for Mr. Eifman at the Russian Pointe Dance Boutique. As he laughed and chatted with the guests, I was so impressed by his humility, grace, and sense of calm. Although he is famous and well-respected in Russia and throughout the world, he was down to earth, and it was evident he derives great joy from ballet and from sharing the arts with others.

I hope you all will join me in seeing more of this brilliant choreographer’s work this year!

Aleksandra Efimova was born in St. Petersburg, Russia and moved to the United States in 1993. As president and owner of Russian Pointe Dance Boutique, Ms. Efimova has been a prominent and vocal supporter of Chicago's growing dance community. In addition to her interest in the arts, Ms. Efimova is a member of the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association, the American-Russian Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and is an alumna of the Harvard Business School.

Meet Nederlands Dans Theater Artists on June 17 at Russian Pointe

Join us for a pre-performance reception on Wednesday, June 17 at Russian Pointe Dance Boutique! The evening will feature wine, hors d'oeuvres and appearances by Nederlands Dans Theater Artistic Director Anders Hellström (pictured), Manager of International Affairs René Vlemmix and a dancer or two. Trolley transporation to the theatre for the performance is also provided.

Call 312.922.2110 ext 300 for information and reservations. The cost for the reception is $50 per person.

Meet Boris Eifman: Pre-Show Reception at Russian Pointe

Visionary choreographer Boris Eifman will be among the guests at a pre-show reception at Russian Pointe Dance Boutique on Saturday, May 16 at 5:30pm. The reception will include hors d'oeuvres, wine and trolley transportation to the Auditorium Theatre for the 8pm performance of Eifman's new ballet, Onegin.

The cost of the reception is $50 (does not include performance ticket). Call 312.922.2110 ext 300 for reservations.

Ailey Opening Night Party at Russian Pointe Dance Boutique

Join us for an Ailey opening night celebration!
Wednesday, April 1 at 5pm

333 N. Michigan Avenue
Suite 222

Celebrate opening night of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater with an elegant pre-show reception at Russian Pointe Dance Boutique!

We will be joined by dancers Glenn Allen Simms and Tina Monica Williams.

Reception includes hors d'oeuvres, wine and trolley transportation to the theatre.

Russian Pointe Dance Boutique is an exquisite venue, with a theatrical ambience featuring burgundy velvet curtains and French crystal chandeliers. The Boutique offers the finest in shoes, attire and accessories for dance and fashion, and frequently hosts receptions for the arts. Click here for more information on Russian Pointe.

Admission is $50. Call 312.922.2110 ext 300 to make your reservation, or download an order form here.