Peter Rosen directs this documentary profile of the great Russian composer. The film charts the life of the composer, and examines the balancing act Khachaturian he had to perform between his role as an active member of the communist party, and that of a champion of artistic freedom. The film, also includes a performance of the Concerto-Rhapsody for Cello and Orchestra performed by Mstislav Rostropovich.

Moscow's legendary Bolshoi Ballet perform the classic tale of a slave who leads an unsuccessful revolt against the Romans, set to music by Aram Khachaturian and choreographed by Yuri Grigorovich. Acclaimed Cuban ballet dancer Carlos Acosta takes the lead role.