Famous British ballet and dance choreographer Matthew Bourne will present his ballet Dorian Gray at the Chekhov International Theatre Festival.

Bourne is known all over the world for his sudden and innovative interpretations of such classic ballets as Swan Lake, Nutcracker and Carmen.

The world premiere of the ballet at Edinburgh International Theatre in 2008 was a sensation. Bourne’s Dorian Gray is a free contemporary dance adaptation of Oscar Wilde's novel.

“I’m trying to find modern parallels. The obsession with youth and wanting to look young has never been a bigger issue. And I’m interested in what happens to people when the camera is turned on them. People you wouldn’t look at suddenly become fascinating,” said choreographer in his interview for The Sunday Times

Thus the story is happening nowadays in the world of contemporary fashion industry. Dorian Gray has become a photo model, artist Basil Hallward has transformed into famous fashion photographer and Lord Henry Wotton has turned into Lady G., the advertising agency director.

You can see the performance in the Mossovet theatre on July 28, 29, 30, 31 and August 1 and 2, 2009.

More details on the schedule and tickets can be found on the Chekhov International Theatre Festival official website.