Onegin
John Cranko’s ballet based on Alexander Pushkin’s novel.
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Basic information
The National Theatre
Approximate running time2 hours 10 minutes, 2 intermission (20 minutes) minutes
PremiereFebruary 20, 2020
“I wait for you. One glance of yours
Fresh hope unto my heart restores;
Cut short this cruel dream I cherish,
deserving, I know, reproach and scorn.”
The Czech National Ballet has reincorporated into its repertoire Onegin, a true gem among narrative ballets, as choreographed by John Cranko, a major 20th-century dance figure and illustrious storyteller. The piece is another addition to the influential artist’s works the company has performed in recent years (Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet).
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The production, which will premiere at the National Theatre, requires from the performers expressive acting, brilliant dance technique and a profound sense for a range of emotional portrayal of the individual characters.
Cranko’s Onegin, to be staged at the National Theatre, requires from the dancers expressive acting, brilliant technique and profound sense for conveying the characters’ emotions and feelings. Alexander Pushkin’s novel in verse Eugene Onegin, a classic of Russian literature, enjoys worldwide fame and popularity. It depicts the story of hapless love between Onegin, a St Petersburg dandy, and Tatyana, the bashful daughter of a landowner. Cranko created his version for the Stuttgarter Ballett, who premiered it in 1965, with Márcia Haydée and Ray Barra in the lead roles. Pushkin’s heroes first appeared on stage owing to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, who based his 1878 opera Eugene Onegin on the novel. Cranko, however, set his ballet to a compilation of other Tchaikovsky pieces, arranged by Kurt-Heinz Stolze.
A treasure of the global ballet legacy, Cranko’s Onegin has been a staple of the repertoire of theatres all over the world. The production’s overall visual concept induces the atmosphere of Pushkin’s novel, with Elisabeth Dalton’s costumes amplifying the romantic hallmark.
The Czech National Ballet soloists and corps de ballet
National Theatre Orchestra
Photo of the visual image: Younsik Kim
WARNING: Gunshots will be heard during the performance.
Suitable for audience from 12 years.
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Practical information
Where to buy tickets
When purchasing online, you can get an e-ticket. You can pick up printed tickets in person at the box offices of the National Theatre.
The National Theatre sells tickets up to 6 months in advance - currently for February–July 2026.
Sales always start on the 1st day of the month at 9am, except in January when pre-sales do not start until the 2nd day due to a public holiday.
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What to wear?
By their appearance, attire and behaviour, the audience is obliged to adhere to the accustomed practice expected from them when attending a theatre performance.
Buffets at the National Theater
No waiting. For your benefit, please pre-order your food and beverages at the bar to minimize waiting in the queue!
Detailed information at divadelnicatering.cz/en.