Yuri Grigorovich, the legendary Russian choreographer who shaped the Bolshoi Ballet’s artistic vision for over three decades, has died at the age of 98. His death on May 19, 2025, marks the end of an era in classical ballet.
A Life Dedicated to Dance
Born on January 2, 1927, in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), Grigorovich hailed from a family deeply connected to the performing arts. He graduated from the Leningrad Choreographic School in 1946 and joined the Kirov Ballet (now the Mariinsky Theatre) as a soloist. His transition to choreography began in the late 1950s, with early successes like The Stone Flower (1957) and The Legend of Love (1961).
Transforming the Bolshoi Ballet
In 1964, Grigorovich was appointed artistic director of the Bolshoi Ballet, a position he held until 1995. During his tenure, he introduced a dynamic and athletic style that revitalized Soviet ballet. His notable productions include Spartacus (1968), Ivan the Terrible (1975), and Romeo and Juliet (1979).
Grigorovich’s approach emphasized storytelling through pure dance, moving away from the traditional “drambalet” style. He collaborated with prominent dancers like Vladimir Vasiliev and Māris Liepa, creating roles that showcased their strengths.
Controversies and Departure
Despite his artistic achievements, Grigorovich’s leadership faced criticism for monopolizing the Bolshoi’s repertoire and stifling alternative artistic expressions. In 1995, internal conflicts and disputes over performers’ contracts led to his resignation, coinciding with the first dancers’ strike in the Bolshoi’s history.
After leaving the Bolshoi, he founded a ballet company in Krasnodar and continued to choreograph. He returned to the Bolshoi in 2008, following the death of his wife, renowned ballerina Natalia Bessmertnova, and remained active in the ballet world until his passing.
Honors and Legacy
Grigorovich received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the titles of People’s Artist of the USSR and Hero of Socialist Labour. His influence extended beyond Russia, serving on juries for international ballet competitions and choreographing the opening ceremony of the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
His death coincided with that of one of his favorite dancers, Yuri Vladimirov, underscoring the end of a significant chapter in ballet history .
Remembering a Ballet Maestro
Yuri Grigorovich’s contributions to ballet have left an indelible mark on the art form. His innovative choreography and dedication to storytelling through dance continue to inspire generations of dancers and choreographers worldwide.
