'Troupe brings 'Romeo and Juliet' to life

With Valentine's Day near, dance fans can indulge in the ultimate of love stories this weekend.

The State Ballet Theatre of Russia will present its production of "Romeo and Juliet," featuring the romantic score of Sergei Prokofiev, at 8 p.m. Jan. 28 and 2 p.m. Jan. 29 at Chicago's Auditorium Theatre.

The beloved ballet currently features new choreography by Mikhael Lavrovsky, former dancer from the Bolshoi Ballet. Lavrovsky is now working his magic as a choreographer for the Bolshoi and other troupes.

With Lavrosky's alluring choreography, the classic tragic tale of doomed sweethearts Romeo and Juliet comes to life in a lush way.

The State Ballet Theatre of Russia, featuring 65 dancers, was founded in 1961 as the Voronezh State Theatre of Opera and Ballet. Lyudmila Sycheva acts as artistic director of the company while Igor Nepomnyashchy is the director. FYI: "Romeo and Juliet" will be performed Jan. 28 and 29 at The Auditorium Theatre,  50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. Tickets start at $30. Call (800) 982-2787 or visit www.ticketmaster.com/auditorium