Ballet 'Aleko' Premieres on May 29｜MoN Takanawa Opening Commemorative Program

MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives, an experimental cultural museum that opened in TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY on March 28, 2026, is presenting the ballet 'Aleko' from Friday, May 29, to Sunday, June 7, 2026, as part of its opening commemorative program.

Today, Friday, May 29, marked the opening night. We are pleased to provide comments from the choreographer and director Naoya Homan and the performers, along with stage photos.

In this production, the background paintings of Chagall's 'Aleko' are recreated with high-definition LED technology, creating an immersive stage experience different from ordinary art appreciation. The performance at MoN Takanawa reconstructs the four-act cycle of Chagall's 'Aleko,' achieving a synergy between the story and the stage.

Directed by Naoya Homan, who worked on the Aomori Museum of Art version of the ballet 'Aleko' in 2024, this production features new staging. The competition among domestic and international dancers is another highlight. International dancer Oleksandr Trush from Ukraine and up-and-coming dancer Koya Okawa serve as W-casts for the lead role of Aleko, expressing Homan's direction, which delves into the characters' emotions, with rich expressive power. The role of Zemfira is performed by NBA Ballet Company principals Ayano Teshigawara and Kaho Yamada.

Choreographer and Performer Comments: Naoya Homan (Choreographer/Director): I felt an intensity exceeding that of the previous production. I felt that the spirit of art could be carried on through human will and imagination. Koya Okawa (Aleko): As it is the first ballet performance in this new theater, I feel it is a special opportunity in my dancing career. Oleksandr Trush (Aleko): Dance is my lifelong passion. I am very happy to perform in this new venue in Tokyo. Ayano Teshigawara (Zemfira): Dancing in front of each background painting makes something gush out; I feel this is a performance only possible at this theater. Kaho Yamada (Zemfira): With the background paintings, the dancers' movements become vivid, and I felt the power of everything coming together as one.