The Kirov's production, according to a press release, is "based on Russian, Caucasian, and especially Scythian folk mythology." It was conceived by Gergiev and set designer George Tsypin and is directed by Vladimir Mirzoev and Julia Pevzner. Costumes are by Tatiana Noginowa; lighting is by Gleb Filschtinsky.

The production premiered in St. Petersburg in 2003; it will travel to the Orange Country Performing Arts Center in Southern California in October 2006.

Tickets are available through www.metopera.org or by calling 212-362-6000.