Stars of Milan’s Teatro alla Scala in a Gala Performance of The 'Sleeping Beauty' at the Croatian National Theatre in ZagrebBallet — 09. April 2026.
On 13 April 2026, the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb will host a gala performance of The Sleeping Beauty by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, choreographed by Paul Chalmer, featuring special guest appearances by distinguished artists from Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, principal dancer Nicoletta Manni and principal dancer Timofej Andrijashenko.
With this guest appearance, the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb continues its practice of collaborating with leading European ballet companies, while Zagreb audiences will have the opportunity to witness a performance of the highest artistic level of one of the most beautiful works of the classical ballet repertoire. The gala evening will take place shortly after the premiere of The Sleeping Beauty on 10 April, which has already generated exceptional interest from both audiences and the media, with performances sold out months in advance.
Nicoletta Manni and Timofej Andrijashenko are among the most prominent artists on today’s ballet scene, recognised for their exceptional technical precision and powerful artistic expression, with performances that regularly earn standing ovations on the world’s leading stages.
Zagreb audiences have already had the opportunity to experience their artistry in a number of notable guest appearances. Nicoletta Manni first performed at the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb at the Ballet Gala Concert in 2022, while both Manni and Andrijashenko appeared in Swan Lake in 2024, choreographed by Vladimir Malakhov. Their collaboration with the Theatre was further affirmed in the 2025 gala performances of Giselle, where they achieved outstanding success in the leading roles.
Nicoletta Manni ranks among the leading ballerinas of today, with an impressive repertoire encompassing the key roles of both classical and contemporary ballet. She was appointed Principal of the Ballet of Teatro alla Scala in 2014 and later awarded the prestigious title of Étoile, further consolidating her international artistic standing.
Timofej Andrijashenko, Principal of the Ballet of Teatro alla Scala, is distinguished by his strong stage presence and refined interpretation. He is the recipient of numerous international accolades, including awards from prestigious ballet competitions in Berlin and Moscow, as well as the Grand Prix Dance Competition and the MAB Award.
The gala performance of The Sleeping Beauty on 13 April offers a unique opportunity to experience the highest level of ballet artistry and performers who belong to the very top of the international scene. Their appearance on the stage of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb once again confirms the Theatre’s international artistic profile and its openness to collaborations at the highest level.
