Skopje, 3 February 2025 (MIA) — The National Opera and Ballet will perform Friday "La Esmeralda," Cesare Pugni's 1844 ballet inspired by the 1831 novel "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" by Victor Hugo.

"Known for its technical difficulty, the ballet 'La Esmeralda' explores the depths of human emotions while offering spectacular dance performances that hold the audience's attention," the NOB said in a press release.

The cast includes Hristina Nakjevska Mitrashinovikj as Esmeralda, Balázs Lőcsei of Hungary as Phoebus and Natasha Trendafilova Gicev as Fleur-de-Lys, joined by the NOB ensemble.

The orchestra will be conducted by Eduard Hambardzumyan of Armenia. The choreographer is Mikhail Krapivin of Russia.

The set was designed by late scenographer Zhivojin Trajanovikj. The costumes were designed by Ljupka Ristovska. The concert master is Jane Bakevski. mr/