I’m a westerner who only seldom finds Zakharova to be watchable, but a rare delicacy, refinement of line, and more naturalistic musicality have often been on full display on stages outside of Russia. This is one such marvellous occasion. Thank you so much for sharing.
I think this was from 2004 - 16 years ago. Zakharova appears softer and rounder, and less brittle or harsh as she is sometimes now. It is a lovely performance; she seems more 'interiorised' and does not play to the audience. Always such a pleasure to see José Martínez who is a graceful and elegant partner.
So is it likely some of the non-Sergeyev (meaning what Sergeyev brought to the West that was originally done by Petipa) choreography was Nureyev? I'm sorry I never got to see Martinez. Zakharova is gorgeous, elegant and using every part of her body out to the fingertips to fill the music (if that makes sense).
