MOSCOW City Ballet returns to Dorset next week with two of the world’s most famous and much loved traditional ballets.

Swan Lake, which featured recently in the phenomenally successful movie The Black Swan, is performed by technically refined dancers and includes lavish sets, beautiful costumes and innovative choreography.

The epic story tells of Prince Siegfried and his love for Odette, who was tricked by the evil sorcerer Von Rothbart and his daughter Odile. The young lovers would rather die together then live apart.

The theatrical dance experience of this classic Russian jewel is completed by Tchaikovsky’s thrilling score.

Timeless classic The Nutcracker incorporates stunning costumes, sumptuous sets and Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece score. This enchanting ballet tells the story of Clara’s magical adventure with her Nutcracker Prince, including a visit to the delicious Land of Sweets and the delightful Sugar Plum Fairy – and this performance is a real treat.

The ballets are being performed at Lighthouse in Poole and venue spokesman Paul Tucker said: “Classical dance is experiencing a dramatic resurgence thanks to films such as Black Swan and television, inspiring a new generation of fans.

“New audiences are now discovering the intensity, drama and beauty of classical ballet when it’s performed live on stage by an artistic and gifted company.

“Moscow City Ballet makes a welcome return to the UK following a sensational 2010-2011 season which included sell-out performances and rave reviews. The company is brimming with some of Russia’s best young dancers, outstanding principals, stunning soloists and a sublime corps de ballet, all underpinned by the dynamic vitality of a live orchestra.”

The company owes its distinctive style to the method, dedication and artistry of Victor Smirnov-Golovanov, distinguished choreographer and one time Bolshoi soloist, and to his wife Ludmila Nerubashenko, the chief ballet mistress. Victor Smirnov-Golovanov said: “We are pleased to be touring the UK again following a phenomenal season last year.

“The UK audiences especially seem to appreciate our gifted dancers and enjoy the spectacle of our traditional ballets. We hope they enjoy this repertoire and embrace this new dance revolution.”

Moscow City Ballet will perform Swan Lake from Tuesday, February 21 to Thursday 23 at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on February 22.

You can see The Nutcracker on Friday 24 at 7.30pm, Saturday 25 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm and Sunday 26 at 3pm.

Call 0844 406 8666 or visit lighthousepoole.co.uk for full details and tickets.