RUSSIA’S acclaimed ballet company is planning a return to the UK - and will stop off in Reading early next year.

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia returns in 2020 for a 22-venue schedule running between January 2 and March 15.

It will be the company’s 18th UK tour and will feature exquisite performances of four of the world’s most popular ballets.

The Hexagon will play host to the talented company on January 21 and 22, with performances of Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty set to delight the audiences.

Swan Lake, the greatest romantic ballet of all time, is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score.

From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all.

From Odile, the temptress in black tutu as she seduces the Prince by spinning with captivating precision to the spellbound purity of the swan queen, Odette, as she flutters with emotional intensity, the dual role of Odette/Odile is one of ballet’s most unmissable technical challenges.

Meanwhile, Sleeping Beauty - every child’s favourite fairy tale - tells the classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score.

Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse.

Commenting on the new dates, artistic director, Sergei Bobrov said: “It is always a pleasure to bring the unique traditions of Russian Ballet to British audiences.

“Touring across the UK with a full company of dancers as well as highly skilled musicians is always exciting.

“For me, it is very special to have the power of a symphony orchestra bringing the choreography to life on stage.”

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia is one of Russia’s leading ballet companies having built an international reputation for delivering performances of outstanding quality and depth. The company comprises over 40 dancers and 30 musicians. For tickets, go to readingarts.com/hexagon or call 0118 960 6060.