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3d ago

Yuri Grigorovich, Iconic Russian Ballet Choreographer, Dies at 98

The Bolshoi Theatre legend leaves behind an 80-year career that shaped global ballet and defined eras of Russian cultural prominence.

Russian choreographer Yuri Grigorovich speaks during the State Prize awards ceremony marking the Day of Russia at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia June 12, 2017. REUTERS/Natalia Kolesnikova/Pool/File Photo
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Yuri Grigorovich (R) was for three decades the lead choreographer at Moscow's famed Bolshoi Theatre
A typically expressive Yuri Grigorovich in 1985

Overview

  • Yuri Grigorovich, a towering figure in ballet, passed away at age 98, as confirmed by the Bolshoi Theatre and Mariinsky Theatre.
  • His career spanned eight decades, transitioning from dancer to choreographer and culminating in his transformative leadership at the Bolshoi Theatre for 30 years.
  • Grigorovich created iconic productions such as The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and The Stone Flower, as well as choreographing for the 1980 Moscow Olympics opening ceremony.
  • He faced controversy in 1995 when he left the Bolshoi over claims of artistic stagnation but returned in 2008, maintaining a significant influence until his death.
  • In addition to his artistic contributions, he presided over international ballet competitions, including the prestigious Benois de la Danse, cementing his global legacy.