Ballet Choreographer Yuri Grigorovich Passes Away at 98

Acclaimed Russian ballet choreographer Yuri Grigorovich has died at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy that redefined Soviet ballet. As artistic director of the Bolshoi Ballet from 1964 to 1995, Grigorovich led the company with a strong vision, earning him the reputation as one of the greatest choreographers of the 20th century. His productions of “The Stone Flower,” “Ivan the Terrible,” and “Romeo and Juliet” showcased his mastery of classical ballet, while his emphasis on male dance revitalized the art form.

Grigorovich’s career spanned decades, beginning as a soloist with the Kirov Ballet in Leningrad before transitioning to choreography. His work was deeply rooted in classical ballet traditions, influenced by his uncle Georgy Rozai’s studies under legendary dancer Vaslav Nijinsky. Grigorovich’s departure from the Bolshoi in 1995 led to a historic dancers’ strike, but he continued to contribute to the world of ballet, founding a new company in Krasnodar and returning to the Bolshoi as a choreographer and ballet master in 2008.

Valery Gergiev, a prominent figure in Russian arts, praised Grigorovich as “a legendary figure who will continue to command respect and admiration for decades to come”. Russian President Vladimir Putin also acknowledged Grigorovich’s contributions, calling him “the pride of the Russian ballet” who “embodies an entire era in the history of Russian ballet”.

Yuri Grigorovich’s impact on Russian ballet is still celebrated today, with his productions remaining a cornerstone of the Bolshoi Ballet’s repertoire. His collaborations with renowned composers, such as Sergei Prokofiev and Aram Khachaturian, resulted in some of the most iconic ballets of the 20th century. Grigorovich’s legacy serves as an inspiration to new generations of dancers and choreographers, ensuring his influence on the world of ballet will be felt for years to come.