Torment And Existentialism

American Ballet Theatre dives into one of the greatest works of literature in history with a balletic adaptation of Fyodor Dostoevsky's magnum opus Crime and Punishment. Considered one of the greatest literary works of all time, the torment and existentialist themes in this profound psychological drama give plenty of material for James Bonas (director) and Helen Picket (choreographer) to create a hauntingly stunning work of ballet.

What Is The Story

Crime and Punishment follows the fortunes of Raskolnikov, a debt-ridden and disillusioned former student. From the boiling slums of St. Petersburg, he sets out to rob and murder a parasitic old pawnbroker, believing that he, as a superior being, is more deserving of her wealth and more likely to do good deeds and help the needy. But he cannot escape his conscience for long and is soon tormented with his interminable guilt.