Can anyone give me any insights into finding out about Mariinsky/Kirov programmes for July and beyond. I am planning to be in Russia sometime between July and November and want to make my visit coincide with the ballet. The official website does not go beyond June and my other sources have thrown up very little.

Here's a little information, although iut will mainly tell you when they will NOT be in Russia, but touring elsewhere:<BR> <A HREF="http://users.skynet.be/ballet-lovers/Burning3.html" TARGET=_blank>http://users.skynet.be/ballet-lovers/Burning3.html</A>

Interesting site, MeHunt. <P>I must say, I didn't care for the photo (grand jeté in red tutu) on the front.

They haven't decided on what they are performing for the season yet . If you want to get the schedule as soon as it comes out you should email Zivile@mariinskyfriends.co.uk he will send you a copy as soon as it is ready , he's sending me one! why not consider becoming a friend of the Mariinsky as i am , you can get tickets from their London office all sorts of info etc , etc , just ask Zivile and he'll let you know all the details...i do know the theatre at the Mariinsky is usually closed in September , but reopens in October.

Sugar Plum and Mehunt - thank you so much - very helpful. It appears that the Bolshoi site is very up to date - Kirov less so.

Emma, I can try to help you to make some enquiries. For your info. the Kirov will be in China in early Oct. before the French tour. But keep checking the Kirov official website.<BR> <A HREF="http://www.mariinsky.ru/en" TARGET=_blank>http://www.mariinsky.ru/en</A>

Basheva, I know what you mean. I can't decide if it's the angle that disturbs me, or that over 180° split, which I always find so vulgar. (She says with a snobbish sniff)<P>Maybe it's the 'crunchy" hands. Or perhaps it's just sheer jealousy.

I think its vulgar too. Does anyone recognize the dancer? From the costume it appears to be the Rubies section of Jewels. I saw Diana Vishneva dance it, but somehow I don't think that picture is her.<p>[This message has been edited by Cassandra (edited May 23, 2002).]

Oversplits by anyone at just about anytime, really turn me off. <P>But then, that is only second in standing to my pet peeve of ungraceful hands.

1. The picture from the "Rubies" is of Maya Dumchenko, a very good ballerina. <BR>2. By the way, Zivile from The Friends of Kirov is SHE. <p>[This message has been edited by Stuart Sweeney (edited May 24, 2002).]

Sorry about that , i knew " he " was a " She", just another typo!!

Kevin - thanks for your message. How would I find out generally about their itinerary. I am joining the Friends as recommended - will that provide such information?

I think joining the friends of the Mariinsky will give you all the info you need...if you are a friend of the ROH you will know all the info you get from them so i think it'll be on the same level..i'm sending off to join the friends of the Mariinsky soon..