An upcoming production of Romeo and Juliet will bring some of the top dancers from Prague to our shores. Malta Art Events director Radka Zemanova speaks to Peter Farrugia.

All the performers featured in Romeo and Juliet are members of the National Theatre in Prague. Photo: Anna Rasmussen

Speaking to Malta Art Events director and National Theatre of Prague dancer Radka Zemanova, it’s clear that dance is a lot more than a job – it’s a lifestyle.

The upcoming staging of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet will be “a perfect way to enjoy some of Prague’s finest dancers”, says Zemanova, adding that it is a way of welcoming Maltese audiences to one of the ballet’s most cherished classics.

No stranger to the intense training and dedication required of a professional dancer, Zemanova’s history is a story in itself.

“I started dancing when I was eight, at the National Theatre Ballet School in Prague,” she says. “When I was 15, I joined the State Dance Conservatory, and after graduating I entered the National Theatre in Prague. Since then, I’ve completely devoted my professional life to classical theatre and performed around the world, guest-starring in various productions.”

Describing the dancers, Zemanova says: “All of the performers who will be featured in Romeo and Juliet are members of the National Theatre in Prague. Romeo is being played by Adam Zvonar, who began ballet school at the age of three. Lady Capulet is being danced by Radka Príhodová, another talented soloist. Each dancer brings something unique to the performance.”

The last time the National Theatre of Prague visited the island was six years ago, when they danced at the Manoel Theatre.

“All soloists who will be performing in this ballet have had excellent long-term exposure on the world stage, and Malta is part of that experience. I want to build stronger ties and cooperate more and more with the theatre here, bringing our two traditions closer together.”

Zemanova is aware of the strong interest many young Maltese performers have in dance, especially a growing pull towards Spanish dance. But there’s something arguably archetypal about ballet.

“I think every little girl dreams of being of a ballerina, and this type of dance is far more challenging than others. It requires a lot of strength, patience and love. And finally, nowadays it is very difficult because of the long studies that are required to work in the theatre.

Fortunately, the Czech Republic fosters this dream when children decide to be ballet dancers. Unfortunately this isn’t possible in Malta and people have to go elsewhere to fully explore their passion – Italy or the UK for example.”

Romeo and Juliet is an excellent choice to showcase talent, inspire audiences, and encourage a new generation of dancers. “It’s a demanding ballet but this shows that when you decide to dance you must sacrifice your entire life and perform with passion and love. This story is universal and many will remember the Fellini film, or the newer film by Luhrmann. These movies show just how alive the story is, that it can still be reinterpreted and reinvented for new audiences. This ballet will inspire you.”

As a dancer herself, eager to share her love for the art form, Zemanova insists that young people should be encouraged to attend ballet and see what it’s all about for themselves.

“I think there is no need for words. Whoever’s on stage and knows how to dance ballet understands how universally beautiful the work is, knows that everything we suffer is worth it. I just wish everyone the opportunity to be on stage as often and as long as possible.”

Romeo and Juliet is being performed on August 8 and 11 at The Xara Lodge, l/o Rabat, at 8.30pm.

http://ticketline.com.mt/bookings/Shows2.aspx?ProductionId=106