September 19, 2023

“The Legend of Love” by Arif Malikov in Baku.

On September 18, 2023, after 60 years, one of the world’s classical music masterpieces, the ballet “The Legend of Love” by Arif Malikov, has returned to Baku.

The ballet was staged by famous Yury Grigorovich, with stage design by Simon Virsaladze. Choreographers Ruslan Pronin and Oksana Tsvetnitskaya, Yury Grigorovich’s assistants, brought the ballet to life on the Baku stage.

In his speech to the audience Yusif Eyvazov noted that September 18 marked a historic convergence of events – National Music Day, the birthday of Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibayli, and the long-awaited return of “The Legend of Love” to the Azerbaijani stage after more than six decades.

“This ballet is included in the treasury of world art, and to this day continues to conquer the hearts of millions.”

Soloists, including Ayan Eyvazova, Denis Rodkin, and Maria Vinogradova, delivered stellar performances, accompanied by the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra conducted by Yalchin Adigozalov.

The performance took place at the Heydar Aliyev Palace as part of the 15th Uzeyir Hajibayli International Music Festival on National Music Day.

This culturally significant event was co-organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry.

Distinguished guests, including Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Executive Director of Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Farah Aliyeva, Head of the Department for Humanitarian Policy, Diaspora Issues, Multiculturalism and Religion of the Presidential Administration of Azerbaijan, and Adil Karimli, the Culture Minister, along with government officials, public figures, representatives of culture and science, and the youth, attended the ballet.

What made this event even more special was the international interest it garnered. Guests from around the world, including Stefano Trespidi, the artistic director of Arena di Verona, and Paolo Fazioli, the founder of the FAZIOLI piano factory, were in attendance. Notably, renowned ballet dancer Nikolay Tsiskaridze, a People’s Artist of Russia, who had previously performed in “The Legend of Love” at the Russian Bolshoi Theater, also graced the occasion.

“The Legend of Love” production, known for its harmonious blend of music, choreography, storytelling, and artistry, captivated the audience. Over 200 costumes and elaborate stage designs added to the grandeur.