Kovalenko Y. The Ballet of the National Opera of Ukraine 1991-2015 years: traditions of performing ballet art, creative persons, performances

This research focuses on ballet of the National Opera of Ukraine (Kyiv) for the period 1991-2015 years. We consider Ukrainian ballet traditions that originate from the beginning of the XIX c. Virtuosity of performance and artistry are the main features of Ukrainian choreographic art in general and the National Opera of Ukraine in particular throughout its history. The study covers the period of Ukraine's independence until 2015, analyzes the most significant performances given period as integral artistic phenomena, leading creative figures of ballet artists - artists, choreographers, teachers. For the first time the attempts have been undertaken to use categorical apparatus of characterology that has practical implications for understanding imagery and expression in ballet. Interviews conducted by researcher (formerly the National Opera ballet dancer) allow to enter the creative laboratory of ballet soloist and choreographer and to analyze processes while creating new performances. The thesis of academic traditions' productivity in classical ballet has been suggested and proved. Keywords: ballet Theatre, National Opera of Ukraine, Ukrainian ballet, interpretation, character, choreographic image.