I've seen them live in a few cities in the USA over the past 40 years and they are always spectacular. Highest quality classical dancers paired with Tchaikovsky score and no wonder this is the most popular ballet in the world. But the Bolshoi ballet is the star.
The scene with 24 swans on stage is not to be missed. Swan Lake is one of the most demanding productions for the corps de ballet. Not only is the choreography technically challenging, but in order to create the effect of a flock of swans, the corps de ballet need to move in complete unison. Bolshoi is exacting in this endeavor.
Then their 4 swan dance is sets the standard. Danse des petits cygnes from the ballet's second act, the fourth movement of No. 13. It is challenging because the dancers must coordinate their leg movements while holding hands. The Bolshoi does it beautifully.
If you ever get a chance to see them, and you love classical ballet, do yourself a favor and see them.
