Mariinsky performs online
Published 29 May, 2009, 07:32
Not everyone gets the chance to don full evening wear for a night at the opera or ballet. But the world-renowned St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre is bringing the highbrow to the mass market.
Saint Petersburg is often described as the cultural capital of Russia, and if so then The Mariinsky Theatre is its centre.
Opened in 1860, its reputation for showcasing the finest opera and ballet is known throughout the world, with masterpieces from Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov receiving their premieres here.
Now the theatre is carrying out its rehearsals for the latest international festival – the white nights.
The legendary Mariinsky Theatre has been attracting audiences for more than a century, but now it has decided to reach them another way – not only from on the stage but also on the screen.
With a little help from Microsoft, the ancient music house is being brought into the 21 century and getting its own internet portal with exclusive access and information.
"It’s a big step. Now audience can see video, stars and also those who have never been to Mariinsky can watch," said Vladimir Gabriel from Microsoft Russia.
For the time being you will only be able to watch extracts from the performances, but in the near future entire operas and ballets, accompanied by strict copyright rules, will go online.
But why does the mariinski feel the need to modernise?
General Director, Conductor and musical Maestro Valery Gergiev says it is an opportunity they simply cannot ignore.
"We have to see where the world goes, and the world goes Internet," Maestro said to RT.
It is also a chance to make classical music and dance appeal to another prime audience – the young.
And in times of financial crisis, the pressure is on to capture maximum viewers – so being in tune with them is key.
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