On November 19, 2026, the National Opera of Ukraine named after Taras Shevchenko will host a performance of the ballet "Vienna Waltz" — a production that has remained in the theater's repertoire since its premiere in 2001. One of the central roles in the performance will be played by the People's Artist of Ukraine and the theater's prima ballerina Krystyna Shyshopor, who will transform into Carla, a ballerina around whom a romantic story unfolds, imbued with the atmosphere of old Vienna, passions, and difficult life choices. The show will begin at 18:00, and the duration of the performance is 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Plot: Love, Jealousy, and the Choice Between Feeling and Duty
At the center of the dramatic conflict is the young composer Franz, who falls in love with the charming Carla. The ballerina's appearance threatens his relationship with his fiancee Annell, and the characters face a difficult choice between feelings and duty, admiration and loyalty. "Vienna Waltz" combines classical choreography with the musical heritage of the Strauss family and a dramatic story about love, jealousy, and human emotions. Exquisite scenery and the dancers' mastery recreate the atmosphere of Vienna and its cultural era.
Ensemble: Leading Soloists of Ukrainian Ballet
Krystyna Shyshopor's partners on stage will be leading artists of Ukrainian ballet. The role of Franz will be performed by Honored Artist of Ukraine Yaroslav Tkachuk, the part of Annell is entrusted to Kateryna Dehtiaresva, and the image of Count Kaiserling will be embodied by Volodymyr Kutuzov. Conductor Serhii Holubnychyi is responsible for the musical accompaniment. "I will be happy to see you in the hall and share the magic of this meeting with you," Krystyna Shyshopor herself addressed the audience.
Musical Foundation and Production History
The musical basis of the performance consists of works by three members of the famous Strauss family — Johann Strauss I, Josef Strauss, and Johann Strauss II. The composition for the ballet was prepared by Oleksii Baklan, and the production designer was Anatoliy Ikonnikov. The libretto and choreography were created by the People's Artist of Ukraine, ballet master Aniko Rekhviashvili, who passed away in 2019. The ballet was first presented to the Kyiv public on November 18, 2001 — almost a quarter of a century ago, and since then the production has remained in the active repertoire of the National Opera.
Practical Information for Spectators
The performance will take place on November 19, 2026, at 18:00 on the stage of the National Opera of Ukraine named after Taras Shevchenko. Tickets are available for purchase on the official website of the theater and at the ticket office of the National Opera of Ukraine. The duration of the performance is 2 hours and 10 minutes.
