1966 Hand Written Letter Describing the Ballet in Samarkand Russia By an American Visitor Touring with the Choate School
Samarkand, Russia: Not Published, 1966. Manuscript. Not Bound. Very Good. Item #028492
Letter dated Friday, 19 August, 1966; addressed to parents and sibling by Harry Rusch: "…yesterday, after we had arrived in Samarkand, I saw the new opera-ballet theatre built 2 years ago, and what was being performed there tonight - but, Giselle!...and so, I got a ticket in the 3rd row from the front of the orchestra for I ruble 50 kopeks which is about $ 1.75 and spent the best evening I have had in a long time, there. The fact that Samarkand is in the heart of Central Asia, seemed to have no effect on the dancing - both the male dancer and the main ballerina were very good…but, after seeing the Kirov, its hard to compare…After the performance was over, I asked several people if I could go back-stage and they more than willing showed me the way, and when I said I was an American, I was more than warmly welcomed - a reaction that occurs often over here…introduced myself to the two main dancers…" The rehearsal room and accommodations are described along with the wage structure and benefits accrued to the performers via the Soviet. : '…Briefly, they've got just about everything you'd want or need…" The writer includes the names and addresses of these performers as they wished to "…receive books or news papers on ballet or dance…" With the mailing envelope, retaining its stamps & postmarks; the return address notes 'Choate School Tour to Russia.' Approx. 6" x 9" size; accomplished on airmail paper; slight wear, old fold lines; in very good condition.
Price: $45.00