Tchaikovsky’s essential masterpiece “Swan Lake,” is being broadcast direct from the Bolshoi Ballet to the big screen at the Lincoln Theater, Sunday, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m. This most beloved ballet of all time within the classical canon, features a new cast with technically challenging performances filled with vibrant emotion from a stunning and world-famous corps de ballet in perfect unison. This legendary love story between Prince Siegfried and the dual white and black swan personalities, Odette/Odile, is a must see.

As Prince Siegfried comes of age, his sense of duty and valor become his guiding principles in life, and yet he is overcome by dreams of a pure and ideal love. Allowing himself to be lured by the Evil Genius, who has come to reveal secrets to the Prince, Siegfried succumbs to the ideal world of his dreams. Following the Evil Genius to the banks of a mysterious lake, Siegfried meets Odette, the white swan and his romantic ideal of love. He swears to love her and be faithful to her forever. But, upon meeting Odile, the black swan persona, Siegfried is struck by her resemblance to Odette and announces her as his chosen bride, thus Siegfried becomes a plaything in the hands of fate.

The Bolshoi Theatre has a very special relationship with “Swan Lake” as it was born within the walls of the Theatre on Feb. 20, 1877 when its first performance took place. Though initial productions were not met with great resound, success came later as the world’s most popular ballet has undergone an infinite number of reproductions, versions, and rearrangements, and has changed with the development of ballet itself.

Yuri Grigorovich’s fantasy, with fragments of original choreography by Ivanov, Petipa and Gorsky, which have been carefully preserved, are harmonically interwoven, and have retained the overall spirit of Tchaikovsky’s conception. The role of Odette/Odile, one of the most iconic in the repertoire, was originally created by the unique Natalia Bessmertnova – prima ballerina at the Bolshoi for three decades beginning in 1963, and wife of Yuri Grigorovich. The Bolshoi Theatre of Russia is one of the most celebrated ballet companies in the world, and for the 8th consecutive season, the Bolshoi Ballet opens its doors to viewers across the world to attend their outstanding performances in more than 1,700 cinemas internationally.

Don’t miss “Swan Lake,” the timeless story of love, dreams, and despair.  Tickets are $15 adult, $13 for members, and $5 Youth 18 and under. Tickets will be available at the door beginning one hour before showtime. The Lincoln Theater is located at 2 Theater St. in Damariscotta. More information is available online at www.lcct.org