Svetlana Zakharova, one of the most celebrated ballerinas in the world, is in Shanghai. She is joining hands with the star dancers of Russia's esteemed Bolshoi Theatre and presenting four performances at the Shanghai Grand Theatre from May 15 to 19.

On May 16, the Bolshoi prima ballerina and her colleagues will present Modanse, which consists of two parts: a one-act dance drama Come Un Respiro, choreographed by Mauro Bigonzetti, and Gabrielle Chanel, a dance drama about the life story of the fashion icon. Zakharova wears the trademark outfits of Chanel and presents her journey from a cabaret performer to the legendary fashion designer, highlighting her close ties to Russian ballet and her love story with Arthur Edward "Boy" Capel.

On May 18-19, she and the Bolshoi dancers will collaborate with Zakharova's husband, internationally acclaimed violinist Vadim Repin, to present the premiere on the Chinese mainland of Pas-de-deux for Toes and Fingers, featuring dances created on a series of celebrated violin composition, such as Paganini's Variations on the Carnival of Venice, Sarasate's Zigeunerweisen, and Saint-Saens' The Dying Swan.

While Modanse will go on to tour other cities in China, Pas-de-deux for Toes and Fingers will be presented in Shanghai only.

Zakharova was born in 1979 and joined the legendary ballet company of Mariinsky Theatre at 17. She won the top award in Russian Theatre, the Golden Mask, twice, in 1999 and 2000. She was named the People's Artist of Russia and La Scala Ballet Etoile in 2008.

Svetlana Zakharova in  Gabrielle Chanel. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Svetlana Zakharova, one of the most celebrated ballerinas in the world, is in Shanghai. She is joining hands with the star dancers of Russia's esteemed Bolshoi Theatre and presenting four performances at the Shanghai Grand Theatre from May 15 to 19. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Svetlana Zakharova, one of the most celebrated ballerinas in the world, is in Shanghai. She is joining hands with the star dancers of Russia's esteemed Bolshoi Theatre and presenting four performances at the Shanghai Grand Theatre from May 15 to 19. [Photo provided to China Daily]