The Bolshoi. Symbol of Russia, a national treasure – mystical and intriguing. In 2013-4 the theatre had grabbed the headlines for all the wrong reasons: intrigue, personal attacks and management changes created lurid headlines.

 

The following season, for the first time, the theatre directors allowed a film crew uncensored access backstage.

 

Combining epic themes with intimate portraits, historical dramas are counterpointed with the untold personal stories of agony and ecstasy that lie behind every acclaimed performance. As the Bolshoi tries to repairs its public image, backstage new dramas unfold - all soaked in an atmosphere of blood, sweat and tears.