TWENTY years ago, Russia was still the enemy of the free world, balefully eyeing Reagan's America and extending cold tentacles of communism across Europe.

Now all that seems to have evaporated like a bad dream. America has had to find new enemies, and we in the West are free to explore the delights of Russian culture, including schoolgirl pop act Tatu and next weeks' honoured guests in Cardiff, the internationally acclaimed Russian Cossack State Dance Company.

Widely acknowledged as Russia's premier dance troupe, the company of 40 dancers, musicians and singers have delighted audiences throughout the UK with their acrobatic performances of Cossack dance and music.

The two-hour show in traditional costume re-tells tales of battle, glory, love, betrayal, and celebrate the unique warrior-horseman culture of Russia. It's folk art at its finest coupled with exuberant dance, thundering rhythms, and the unique Soviet love of tragedy.

The Russian Cossack State Dance Company come to St David's Hall on Thursday, June 12. Tickets range from £12.50 to £18.50 and the show begins at 7.30pm. Box office 02920 878444.