Bertrand Normand's intimate documentary begins with young dancer Alina Somova's acceptance into Russia's prestigious Kirov Ballet. Using her story and that of four other accomplished ballerinas at various stages in their careers, the film sheds light not only on the individual dancers' struggles, anxieties and achievements, but also on the significance of ballet in Russian culture. Clips of dance performances at St. Petersburg's famed Mariinsky Theatre are featured throughout the film.