Two-time Russian junior champion Elena Kostyleva will debut a new short program in the upcoming season, set to Maurice Ravel’s iconic “Boléro.” The choreography has been created by five-time Russian national champion Ivan Bukin.
The news was shared by the figure skater’s mother, Irina Kostyleva.
“Well, since the information leaked from the ‘Angels’ rink, I have to reveal the secret earlier than planned. Although I’m surprised it didn’t come out earlier, back in early April.
The program’s choreographer returned from masterclasses in Mexico (a hint). The very next day, he came to ‘Angels of Plushenko’ to put together Lena’s short program. I’m really surprised no one spilled the beans before.
Alright. We couldn’t keep it a secret until the test skates. Evgeniy Viktorovich and Lena chose the music much earlier, back in February. It’s Ravel’s ‘Boléro.’
We listened to the music during training sessions. Lena moved to it. We thought about who could create something interesting? Without the ‘classic’ leg movements to it. Lena and I watched many performances of ‘Boléro,’ but the most memorable skate remains Torvill and Dean’s.
The short program for the 2026/27 season, set to Ravel’s music, was choreographed by Ivan Bukin. Lena’s meeting with Ivan and working on this program is a breath of something new for her. Ivan is a phenomenal skater and an intriguing choreographer.
Now we’ll wait for further work on the program. Only the skeleton is set. They’ll add choreography. I’m very curious about the final result. I can’t wait. I want to see the full program. Well-skated and in character.
I have ideas for the costume. But I’m waiting for suggestions from the designer who will make it. Maybe it’ll be something stunning.
Lena and Ivan were already working on the short program when Lev Lazarev’s team announced his music – ‘Boléro.’ Isn’t it great that two such wonderful athletes, two-time Russian junior champions of the last two seasons, without prior agreement, chose the same music?
It’s simply fantastic. I think Lena and Lev are very similar (even in appearance). In character and talent. So they like the same music,” wrote Irina Kostyleva in her Telegram channel chat.
Related material: Kostyleva’s new short program will be set in a new style for her.
