Famous Russian Dancers

Mikhail Baryshnikov is a renowned Latvian-American dancer, choreographer, and actor. He gained fame as a leading male classical ballet dancer in the 1970s and 1980s before transitioning into a successful dance director. Baryshnikov defected to Canada in 1974 to pursue opportunities in Western dance, later joining the American Ballet Theatre and New York City Ballet. He has spearheaded numerous artistic projects, particularly in promoting modern dance, and is widely recognized for his work in stage, cinema, and television.

Anna Pavlova was a renowned Russian prima ballerina who achieved fame as a principal artist of the Imperial Russian Ballet and the Ballets Russes of Sergei Diaghilev. She is best known for creating the iconic role of The Dying Swan and for being the first ballerina to tour the world with her own company, performing in countries such as South America, India, Mexico, and Australia. Pavlova's professional career was marked by her exceptional talent, artistry, and pioneering spirit in expanding the reach of ballet internationally.

Rudolf Nureyev was a renowned Soviet-born ballet dancer and choreographer, considered one of the greatest male ballet dancers of his generation. He began his career with the Kirov Ballet in Leningrad before defecting to the West in 1961, making international headlines. Nureyev went on to dance with The Royal Ballet in London and later served as director and chief choreographer of the Paris Opera Ballet. He was known for his interpretations of classical works such as Swan Lake, Giselle, and La Bayadère, leaving a lasting impact on the world of ballet.

Artem Chigvintsev is a Russian professional dancer known for his expertise in Latin dancing. He was a cast member of Burn the Floor, showcasing his talents on both Broadway and in the West End. In 2010, Chigvintsev transitioned to Strictly Come Dancing where he found immediate success, winning the show in his debut year alongside celebrity partner Kara Tointon. His career has been marked by his skillful performances and ability to captivate audiences with his dancing prowess.

Galina Sergeyevna Ulanova was a renowned Russian ballet dancer widely regarded as one of the greatest ballerinas of the 20th century. She had a distinguished professional career marked by exceptional artistry, grace, and emotion in her performances. Ulanova's talent and dedication earned her international acclaim, and she became a leading figure in the world of ballet, particularly known for her roles in classical ballets such as Giselle and Swan Lake. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring dancers and ballet enthusiasts around the globe.

Olga Khokhlova was a talented ballet dancer who rose to fame as a member of the prestigious Ballets Russes in Paris under the direction of Sergei Diaghilev. Her professional career flourished as she captivated audiences with her graceful performances. Olga's passion for dance led her to meet and marry the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, becoming a significant inspiration for his early works. Throughout her career, she left a lasting legacy as a dedicated dancer and muse to one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Kristina Rihanoff is a renowned Russian professional ballroom dancer. With exceptional talent and skill, she has made a significant mark in the world of dance. Known for her graceful movements and strong stage presence, Kristina has achieved success in various dance competitions and performances. Throughout her career, she has inspired and captivated audiences with her performances, earning recognition and praise from both fans and critics alike. Kristina's dedication and passion for dance have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the dance industry.

Svetlana Zakharova is a renowned prima ballerina known for her exceptional talent and technical prowess. She began her career at the Bolshoi Ballet and quickly rose to fame as one of the leading ballerinas of her generation. With her graceful and powerful performances, she has captivated audiences worldwide. In addition to her work at the Bolshoi Ballet, Zakharova has also been honored as an étoile at the La Scala Theatre Ballet. Her artistry, dedication, and versatility have solidified her status as a true star in the world of ballet.

Mathilde Kschessinska was a renowned Polish-Russian ballerina known for her exceptional skills and artistry in the world of ballet. She achieved great success and acclaim as a prima ballerina, captivating audiences with her graceful performances and technical mastery. Kschessinska's talent and dedication to her craft led her to become a prominent figure in the ballet world, earning her a lasting legacy as one of the most celebrated dancers of her time.

Pati Behrs Eristoff was a renowned Russian American prima ballerina and actress known for her exceptional talent and grace on stage. Throughout her career, she captivated audiences with her mesmerizing performances, showcasing a unique blend of artistry and skill. As a prima ballerina, she achieved acclaim for her precise technique and emotive storytelling through dance. Her work in the realm of acting further demonstrated her versatility and depth as a performer, solidifying her legacy as a true artistic talent in the world of performing arts.

Maya Plisetskaya was a renowned Soviet and Russian ballet dancer, choreographer, ballet director, and actress. She danced at the Bolshoi Theatre under esteemed directors, becoming prima ballerina assoluta after Galina Ulanova's retirement. Plisetskaya toured internationally during the Cold War, showcasing Soviet achievements. Known for her technical brilliance and dramatic presence, she created iconic roles in various ballets, setting a higher standard for ballerinas. Plisetskaya's husband composed music for her ballets. Despite being an international superstar, she remained loyal to the Soviet Union.

Pavel "Pasha" Kovalev is a Russian professional Latin and ballroom dancer with a successful career spanning both the United States and the United Kingdom. He gained recognition for his appearances on So You Think You Can Dance and Strictly Come Dancing, where he showcased his talent as a dancer and choreographer. Kovalev achieved significant milestones on Strictly Come Dancing, including winning series twelve with his partner Caroline Flack and setting records for highest average score and most perfect scores.

Yulia Zagoruychenko is a highly accomplished Latin Dance Champion, known for her exceptional skills and achievements in the world of professional dance. She has secured numerous titles and accolades throughout her career, showcasing her talent and dedication to the art form. With her partner Riccardo Cocchi, she has dominated the world of Professional Latin dance, consistently ranking at the top of competitions and earning multiple championship titles. Yulia's passion for dance extends beyond Latin, drawing inspiration from various dance forms and renowned artists, further enriching her career and performances.

Lydia Lopokova was a renowned Russian ballerina of the early 20th century, trained at the Imperial Ballet School and known for her performances with the Ballets Russes. She captivated audiences with her graceful and expressive dancing, showcasing her talent on various stages around the world. In 1925, she married the distinguished economist John Maynard Keynes and became known as Lady Keynes. Following Keynes's passing in 1946, Lopokova retreated from the public eye and spent her later years in Sussex.

Maria Khoreva is a prominent Russian ballet dancer, known for her exceptional talent and artistry. She has been a first soloist with the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet since 2018, showcasing her mastery in various classical and contemporary ballet repertoire. Khoreva's performances are characterized by her technical precision, emotional depth, and captivating stage presence. She has garnered acclaim for her roles in iconic ballet productions and continues to impress audiences worldwide with her exquisite technique and compelling interpretations.

Natalia Makarova is a renowned Russian prima ballerina and choreographer known for setting high standards of artistry and elegance in dance. She is celebrated as one of the finest ballerinas of her generation in the West, as noted in "The History of Dance" published in 1981. Makarova's professional life is characterized by her exceptional talent, grace, and contributions to the world of ballet. Her performances have captivated audiences worldwide and solidified her legacy as a leading figure in the dance industry.

Elena Ilinykh is a distinguished retired Russian ice dancer who has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career. Notably, she claimed the 2015 Russian national championship title with partner Ruslan Zhiganshin and secured an Olympic gold medal in the team event and a bronze in ice dancing at the 2014 Winter Olympics alongside former partner Nikita Katsalapov. Her successful partnership with Katsalapov also resulted in several European medals and the 2010 World Junior championship title, establishing her as a prominent figure in the sport.

Tamara Toumanova was a renowned prima ballerina and actress who gained international fame as one of the Baby Ballerinas of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. She made her debut at the Paris Opera at a young age and was discovered by George Balanchine, who featured her in his productions in Europe and the United States. Known for her exceptional talent and grace, Toumanova dedicated most of her career to ballet but also appeared in several films as a ballet dancer.

Diana Sergeevna Davis is an accomplished American-born Russian-Georgian ice dancer who competes for Georgia. Alongside her partner, Gleb Smolkin, they have achieved significant success in the ice dancing world. They are the 2021 CS Warsaw Cup champions and the 2022 Russian national silver medalists. On the junior level, Davis and Smolkin have also excelled, earning the title of 2020 Russian junior national bronze medalists, placing in the top five at the 2020 World Junior Figure Skating Championships, and competing in the 2019–20 Junior Grand Prix Final.

Michel Fokine was a prominent Russian choreographer and dancer known for his innovative approach to ballet. He played a significant role in revolutionizing classical ballet by incorporating expressive movements and exotic themes into his choreography. Fokine's professional life was characterized by collaborations with renowned ballet companies and artists, including his work with the Ballets Russes. His choreographic style emphasized storytelling and emotional expression, influencing the future direction of ballet as an art form. Fokine's contributions continue to inspire and influence choreographers and dancers worldwide.

Victoria Sinitsina is a highly accomplished Russian ice dancer who has achieved great success in her career. She has won numerous medals in prestigious competitions such as the Olympics, World Championships, European Championships, and Russian national championships. With her current partner Nikita Katsalapov, she has secured multiple titles including Olympic silver and bronze medals, as well as being crowned World and European Champions. Prior to this partnership, she also achieved success with former partner Ruslan Zhiganshin, winning the World Junior championship and several bronze medals in other competitions.

Léonide Massine was a prominent Russian choreographer and ballet dancer known for creating the world's first symphonic ballet, Les Présages, and numerous other innovative works. Throughout his extensive career, Massine choreographed a variety of pieces ranging from serious and dramatic to lighthearted and romantic. He also gained recognition for his performances in comic roles, such as the Can-Can Dancer in La Boutique fantasque, the Hussar in Le Beau Danube, and the Peruvian in Gaîté Parisienne. His legacy lives on through the staging of his works worldwide by his son Lorca Massine.

Lyudmila Iosifovna Vlasova is a renowned Russian ballet dancer who achieved great success as a soloist at the Bolshoi Theatre from 1961 to 1982. Throughout her career, she captivated audiences with her exceptional talent and grace on stage. Following her time as a soloist, Vlasova transitioned into acting and eventually found a new passion as a choreographer specializing in dance on ice. Her versatility and dedication to the art of dance have solidified her as a respected figure in the world of performing arts.

Sergei Ponomarenko is a renowned Russian former competitive ice dancer who achieved great success during his career. Competing for the Soviet Union and the Unified team, he, along with his skating partner Marina Klimova, secured numerous prestigious titles including the 1992 Olympic champion, 1988 Olympic silver medalist, and 1984 Olympic bronze medalist. Additionally, Ponomarenko is a three-time World champion and four-time European champion, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport of ice dancing.

Ivan Andreyevich Bukin is a highly accomplished Russian ice dancer known for his successful partnership with Alexandra Stepanova. Together, they have achieved numerous accolades including four European medals, multiple Grand Prix titles, and national championships. Their impressive career highlights also include victories at the World Junior Championships and various junior competitions. With a total of eleven medals on the Grand Prix series and three Finlandia Trophy titles, Bukin's professional life is marked by consistent success and a strong competitive spirit in the world of ice dancing.

Anastasia Yuryevna Volochkova is a former Russian prima ballerina known for her remarkable career in the world of ballet. With exceptional talent and dedication, she rose to prominence as a leading figure in the ballet industry. Volochkova's professional life was characterized by her performances on prestigious stages, where she showcased her impeccable technique and graceful artistry. Her contributions to the ballet world have left a lasting impact, solidifying her reputation as a highly respected and accomplished ballerina.

Marina Anissina is a highly accomplished ice dancer with a successful career in both Russia and France. She has competed at the highest levels of international figure skating, achieving remarkable success alongside partners such as Gwendal Peizerat and Ilia Averbukh. Anissina's impressive achievements include winning Olympic gold and bronze medals, as well as multiple World Championships and national titles. Her dedication, skill, and artistry have solidified her reputation as one of the most talented and revered ice dancers in the sport's history.

Ulyana Lopatkina is a renowned Russian prima ballerina who had a distinguished career with the Mariinsky Theatre from 1991 to 2017. Trained at the prestigious Vaganova Academy under Natalia Dudinskaya, she joined the Kirov/Mariinsky Theatre Ballet in 1991 and rose to the rank of principal dancer in 1995. Lopatkina's exceptional talent and artistry captivated audiences worldwide. Despite facing injury setbacks towards the end of her career, her legacy as a graceful and expressive performer endures in the world of ballet.

Natalia Osipova is a renowned Russian ballerina widely acclaimed for her exceptional talent and versatility. She has gained international recognition for her performances as a principal ballerina with The Royal Ballet in London. Osipova's professional journey is marked by numerous collaborations with prestigious dance companies and choreographers worldwide, showcasing her remarkable artistry and technical prowess. Known for her captivating stage presence and emotional depth, she continues to captivate audiences with her innovative interpretations of classical and contemporary ballet repertoire.

Vaslav Nijinsky was a Russian ballet dancer and choreographer of Polish ancestry, regarded as the greatest male dancer of the early 20th century. He danced en pointe, showcasing rare skill among male dancers. Nijinsky's career saw him as a star with the Imperial Ballet and later the Ballets Russes, where he created groundbreaking choreographies like L'après-midi d'un faune and Le Sacre du Printemps. His artistic collaborations with Sergei Diaghilev revolutionized male dance performance, earning him international fame before his mental health struggles ended his public dancing career.

Nikita Katsalapov is a highly accomplished Russian ice dancer with a successful professional career. With partner Victoria Sinitsina, he has achieved numerous accolades, including being a 2022 Olympic silver medalist and a 2021 World champion. Additionally, they have secured titles such as two-time European Champion and two-time Russian national champion. Katsalapov has also excelled with former partner Elena Ilinykh, winning medals at prestigious events like the Olympics, European Championships, and World Junior Championships, showcasing his versatility and skill in ice dancing.

Tatiana Navka is a highly accomplished former competitive ice dancer, known for her successful partnership with Roman Kostomarov. Together, they achieved numerous prestigious titles including the 2006 Olympic champion, two-time World champion, three-time Grand Prix Final champion, and three-time European champion. Navka's professional career also included representing both the Soviet Union and Belarus in international competitions. Her talent, dedication, and success on the ice have solidified her reputation as one of the top ice dancers in the world.

Ida Lvovna Rubinstein was a prominent Russian dancer, actress, and art patron known for her contributions to the arts during the Belle Époque era. She gained recognition for her performances with Diaghilev's Ballets Russes and later established her own successful dance company. Rubinstein was notable for commissioning works such as Boléro by Ravel, showcasing her influence and support for the arts. Her professional endeavors left a lasting impact on the world of dance and theater.

Irina Baronova was a renowned Russian ballerina and actress known for her exceptional talent and contributions to the world of ballet. She was a key member of the Baby Ballerinas of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, discovered by George Balanchine in Paris during the 1930s. Baronova created numerous iconic roles in ballet productions choreographed by luminaries such as Léonide Massine and Bronislava Nijinska. Her performances were marked by grace, precision, and a deep artistic expression that captivated audiences worldwide.

Agrippina Vaganova was a renowned Soviet and Russian ballet teacher known for developing the Vaganova method, a technique derived from the Imperial Ballet School's teaching methods under Marius Petipa. She perfected and cultivated this method into a workable syllabus, which remains widely used today. Vaganova authored the influential textbook "Fundamentals of the Classical Dance" in 1934, which continues to be a standard resource for ballet instruction. Her professional legacy is characterized by her significant contributions to the art of classical ballet teaching.

Diana Vishneva is a renowned Russian ballet dancer known for her exceptional talent and artistry. She has achieved great success as a principal dancer with the Mariinsky Ballet, captivating audiences worldwide with her performances. Vishneva's career is marked by numerous acclaimed roles in classical and contemporary ballet repertoire. She is celebrated for her technical precision, emotional depth, and versatility on stage. Through her dedication and commitment to her craft, Diana Vishneva has solidified her place as one of the most prominent and respected dancers in the ballet world.

Alexander Godunov was a prominent Russian-American ballet dancer and film actor. He started his career as a member of the Bolshoi Ballet, where he rose to become the troupe's Premier danseur. In 1979, he defected to the United States, where he continued to pursue his passion for dance while also venturing into acting. He gained recognition for his supporting roles in Hollywood films, with notable performances in movies like Witness (1985) and Die Hard (1988).

Katya Jones is a highly accomplished Russian dancer and choreographer, renowned for her exceptional talent and expertise in the world of dance. She gained widespread recognition as a professional dancer on the popular competition show Strictly Come Dancing, where she showcased her remarkable skills and artistry. Jones achieved a significant milestone by winning the show in 2017 with her partner Joe McFadden and made history in the 2020 series by being part of the first same-sex couple to compete in the UK competition's format.

Sofya Skya is a versatile Russian professional known for her work as an actress, ballet dancer, director, and acting coach. Her career spans various aspects of the entertainment industry, showcasing her talent and expertise in multiple roles. Through her performances on screen and stage, as well as her contributions behind the scenes, Sofya Skya has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of entertainment. Her dedication to her craft and diverse skill set have solidified her reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished professional.

Alexandra Danilova was a renowned Russian-American prima ballerina. Known for her exceptional talent and grace, she captivated audiences around the world with her performances. Throughout her illustrious career, she achieved numerous milestones and accolades, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest ballet dancers of her time. Her dedication to the art of ballet and her contributions to the dance world were honored with prestigious awards, including the Kennedy Center Honors in 1989, recognizing her outstanding lifetime achievements in the field.

Alina Somova is a renowned Russian ballet dancer and principal dancer with the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet in Saint Petersburg. She has achieved international acclaim for her exceptional artistry, technical prowess, and captivating stage presence. Somova's performances are characterized by her impeccable technique, graceful movements, and expressive storytelling. As a principal dancer, she has portrayed a wide range of iconic roles in classical ballet repertoire, showcasing her versatility and mastery of the art form. Somova continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her extraordinary talent and dedication to the craft.

Sergei Polunin is a renowned Ukrainian ballet dancer, actor, and model who has made a significant impact on the world of dance. Starting his career in gymnastics before transitioning to ballet, Polunin's talent and dedication led him to join the British Royal Ballet School at a young age. Throughout his career, he has garnered numerous awards and accolades, including being named the Young British Dancer of the Year. As a freelance principal dancer, Polunin has performed as a guest artist at prestigious theatres worldwide, showcasing his exceptional talent and artistry.

Vladimir Vasiliev is a renowned Soviet and Russian ballet dancer and choreographer, known for his time as a principal dancer and director at the Bolshoi Ballet. He gained fame for his portrayal of Spartacus and his exceptional leaps and turns. Vasiliev was honored as the People's Artist of the USSR in 1973. Dubbed the "God of the dance," he is considered a classical dancer of the highest caliber, often compared to legends like Rudolf Nureyev, Erik Bruhn, and Mikhail Baryshnikov. Alongside Ekaterina Maximova, he formed a celebrated partnership at the peak of their careers.

Alexander Ivanovich Pushkin was a renowned Russian ballet dancer and ballet master. He had a successful career teaching and choreographing for some of the most talented dancers of his time, including Askold Makarov, Nikita Dolgushin, Oleg Vinogradov, Margarita Trayanova, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Rudolf Nureyev. Pushkin's influence extended beyond his own performances, as he dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of dancers and imparting his knowledge and expertise to his students. He left a lasting impact on the world of ballet through his dedication and artistry.

Daniil Simkin is a renowned ballet dancer and entrepreneur known for his exceptional technical skill and captivating stage presence. He has held principal dancer positions at American Ballet Theatre and Berlin State Ballet. Based in New York, Simkin is the founder of Studio Simkin, showcasing his passion for dance through various artistic endeavors. With a successful career in the ballet world, he continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his talent and creativity.

Ekaterina Maximova was a renowned Soviet and Russian ballerina of the 20th century, achieving international acclaim for her talent. She served as a prima ballerina at the Bolshoi Theatre for three decades, excelling both on stage and as a ballet pedagogue. Maximova garnered numerous accolades from international ballet competitions and prestigious awards. She also held esteemed positions as a professor at GITIS and Moscow State University, an Academician of the Russian Academy of Arts, and was actively involved with UNESCO's Russian Center of Counseil International De La Danse.

Alexander Zhulin is a renowned Russian ice dancing coach and former competitor. He achieved great success alongside Maya Usova, winning two Olympic medals, becoming World and European champions, and securing gold medals at various prestigious competitions. Throughout his career, Zhulin represented different countries, including the Soviet Union, the Unified Team, and Russia. Following his competitive career, Zhulin transitioned to coaching, where he continues to inspire and mentor future generations of ice dancers with his wealth of experience and expertise.

Kseniya Ryabinkina is a renowned Russian professional ballet dancer and character actor with a career spanning several decades. She has made significant contributions to Soviet, Russian, and Hindi cinema since the 1960s. Known for her exceptional talent and versatility, Ryabinkina has captivated audiences with her graceful performances on stage and screen. With her dedication to the art of ballet and acting, she has established herself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact on viewers worldwide.

Lev Ivanovich Ivanov was a prominent Russian ballet dancer and choreographer, known for his work with the Imperial Ballet. He gained recognition for his performance in La Fille Mal Gardée and later became the Second Balletmaster of the Imperial Ballet. Ivanov is celebrated for his choreography in ballet classics such as Swan Lake, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker, which he co-choreographed with Marius Petipa. His contributions to Acts II and IV of Swan Lake, including the iconic Dance of the Little Swans, showcase his enduring influence in the world of ballet.

Oksana (Pasha) Vladimirovna Grishuk is a highly accomplished Russian former competitive ice dancer. She gained widespread recognition for her successful partnership with Evgeni Platov, with whom she achieved remarkable success, including two Olympic gold medals, four World championships, and three European championships. Prior to this partnership, Grishuk had already showcased her talent by winning the World Junior championship with her previous partner Alexandr Chichkov. Throughout her career, Oksana Grishuk demonstrated exceptional skill, artistry, and dedication to the sport of ice dancing.

Evgenia Obraztsova is a distinguished Russian ballerina known for her exceptional talent and artistry. She holds the prestigious title of prima ballerina with both the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow and the Mariinsky Ballet. With her graceful movements and captivating performances, she has earned international acclaim for her interpretations of classical and contemporary ballet roles. Obraztsova's professional career is marked by numerous successful collaborations with renowned choreographers and her ability to mesmerize audiences with her stunning performances on some of the world's most prestigious stages.

Alexei Ratmansky is a prominent Russian-Ukrainian-American choreographer and former ballet dancer. He served as the director of the Moscow Bolshoi Ballet from 2004 to 2008 before leaving Russia. In 2009, he was appointed as the artist in residence at the American Ballet Theatre. His talent and creativity led to his subsequent appointment as the artist in residence at the New York City Ballet starting in August 2023. Ratmansky's career has been marked by a dedication to pushing the boundaries of ballet choreography and innovation.

Tamara Karsavina was a prominent Russian prima ballerina known for her beauty and talent. She rose to fame as a principal artist of the Imperial Russian Ballet and later the Ballets Russes. After relocating to London, she became a respected ballet teacher and a key figure in the development of modern British ballet. Karsavina played a crucial role in establishing The Royal Ballet and co-founded the Royal Academy of Dance, now a leading global dance-teaching organization.

George Balanchine was a highly influential Georgian-American ballet choreographer known for his innovative and distinctive neoclassical style. He co-founded the New York City Ballet and served as its artistic director for over 35 years. Balanchine's choreography was characterized by plotless ballets, minimal costumes, and classical music, showcasing his exceptional musicality. He collaborated closely with renowned composers such as Igor Stravinsky, creating groundbreaking works that combined elements of classical ballet with modern influences from his time on Broadway and in Hollywood.

Tamara Geva was a versatile and talented actress, ballet dancer, and choreographer with a remarkable career that spanned both the Soviet Union and the United States. She made significant contributions to the world of dance and theater, dancing with Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, collaborating with her husband George Balanchine, and showcasing her skills in various Broadway productions and Hollywood films. Geva's professional life was marked by her exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication to the art of dance and performance.

Igor Aleksandrovich Moiseyev was a renowned Soviet and Russian ballet master, dancer, choreographer, and pedagogue. He gained recognition as the preeminent choreographer of character dance in the 20th century, blending elements of folk dance with professionalism and theatrics. Moiseyev's innovative approach to dance captivated audiences worldwide, earning him widespread acclaim for his unique and dynamic performances. Through his choreography, he elevated character dance to new heights, leaving a lasting impact on the world of dance and inspiring future generations of dancers and choreographers.

Natalia Dudinskaya was a Soviet prima ballerina known for dominating the Kirov Ballet from the 1930s to the 1950s. Trained by Agrippina Vaganova, she excelled in classical leads and originated leading roles in various ballets. Dudinskaya received four Stalin Prizes during her career and was named a People's Artist of the USSR in 1957. After retiring, she became a renowned ballet mistress and teacher, coaching several notable ballerinas. Dudinskaya's influence extended internationally through her work staging Russian classics.

Alexandra Nikolayevna Stepanova is a highly accomplished Russian ice dancer who has achieved significant success in her career alongside skating partner Ivan Bukin. Together, they have earned multiple European medals, Grand Prix titles, and national championships, showcasing their skill and talent on the ice. With victories at prestigious events like the World Junior Championships and JGP Final earlier in their career, Stepanova has established herself as a prominent figure in the world of ice dancing, consistently delivering impressive performances and securing numerous accolades throughout her professional journey.

Olga Preobrajenska was a renowned Russian ballerina and ballet instructor, known for her exceptional talent and artistry in the Russian Imperial Ballet. With a career spanning several decades, Preobrajenska captivated audiences with her graceful performances and impeccable technique. As a ballet instructor, she influenced generations of dancers, sharing her expertise and passion for the art form. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring dancers around the world, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential figures in the history of ballet.

Olga Lepeshinskaya was a renowned Soviet ballerina who achieved great recognition for her exceptional talent and contributions to the world of ballet. She was honored with the title of People's Artist of the USSR in 1951, highlighting her remarkable skill and dedication to her craft. Throughout her professional career, Lepeshinskaya captivated audiences with her graceful performances and mastery of classical ballet. Her legacy as a distinguished ballerina continues to inspire aspiring dancers and admirers of the art form worldwide.

Elena Grinenko is a renowned ballroom dancer, instructor, and choreographer with a thriving professional career. She gained widespread recognition for her appearances on the hit TV show, "Dancing with the Stars." Grinenko excels in national and world Championships as a competitive ballroom dancer, showcasing her exceptional talent and skill on the dance floor. As an experienced instructor and choreographer, she shares her expertise and passion for dance with others, leaving a lasting impact on the world of ballroom dancing.

Fedor Andreev is a former figure skater who excelled in both single skating and ice dancing. He achieved success in single skating by winning the Canadian bronze medal in 2003 and the junior national championship in 1999. In 2010, he transitioned to ice dancing and represented Russia alongside partner Jana Khokhlova for a season. Throughout his professional career, Andreev demonstrated versatility and skill in different disciplines of figure skating, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Yury Grigorovich is a renowned Soviet and Russian choreographer and dancer who has made significant contributions to the ballet world. Known for his exceptional talent and artistic vision, Grigorovich has been a prominent figure in Russian ballet for over three decades. He has not only excelled as a dancer but also as a choreographer, creating timeless ballet productions that have captivated audiences worldwide. Grigorovich's expertise has been recognized through his leadership in international ballet competitions and prestigious awards, including the Lenin Prize and Ludvig Nobel Prize.

Ivan Vasiliev is a renowned Russian ballet dancer and choreographer, known for his exceptional talent and numerous accolades throughout his career. He has won prestigious prizes such as First Prize at the Moscow International Ballet Competition, Special Distinction at the Varna International Ballet Competition, and the Benois Prix de la Danse. Vasiliev has been recognized as a Rising Star of the Soul of Dance Award, named one of "25 to Watch" by Dance Magazine, and received various other honors including the Grand Prix at the International Dance Open in Saint Petersburg.

Natalia Bessmertnova was a renowned Soviet prima ballerina of the Bolshoi Ballet and a People's Artist of the USSR. She captivated audiences with her graceful and powerful performances, earning critical acclaim for her technical mastery and emotional depth. Bessmertnova's career spanned several decades, during which she portrayed iconic roles in classical ballets, such as Giselle and Swan Lake. Her artistry and dedication to her craft solidified her reputation as one of the most revered ballerinas of her time, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of dance.

Margarita Drobiazko is a Russian retired ice dancer who competed for Lithuania starting in 1992 when she partnered with Povilas Vanagas. Together, they achieved significant success in their career, including winning the 1999 Skate Canada championship and earning multiple bronze medals at various prestigious competitions. Drobiazko also competed in five Winter Olympics and attained a highest placement of 5th. Her professional life was marked by dedication, skill, and a strong competitive spirit that led to numerous accomplishments in the world of ice dancing.

Marina Timofeyevna Semyonova was a renowned Soviet prima ballerina born in Saint-Petersburg. She made history as the first Soviet-trained prima ballerina, showcasing exceptional talent and skill in her performances. Semyonova's career was marked by numerous accolades, including being named a People's Artist of the USSR in 1975, highlighting her significant contributions to the world of ballet. Throughout her professional life, Semyonova captivated audiences with her grace, technique, and artistry, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of classical dance.

Nina Kaptsova is a prominent Russian prima ballerina known for her exceptional talent and artistry. She has established herself as a leading figure in the world of ballet, particularly as a member of the renowned Bolshoi Ballet. Throughout her career, Kaptsova has captivated audiences with her graceful performances and impeccable technique, earning widespread acclaim and recognition. Her dedication to the art form, coupled with her versatility and expressive prowess, solidify her reputation as one of the most esteemed ballerinas of her generation.

Vadim Muntagirov is a renowned Russian ballet dancer known for his exceptional talent and skill. He currently holds the prestigious position of principal dancer at The Royal Ballet in London, showcasing his artistry and technique on stage. Prior to this, he was a lead principal dancer at the English National Ballet, where he captivated audiences with his graceful performances. Muntagirov's career is marked by numerous accolades and critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as one of the finest ballet dancers of his generation.

Sulamith Messerer was a renowned Russian ballerina and choreographer known for her significant contributions to the world of classical ballet. Throughout her illustrious career, she played a key role in shaping the art form in Japan, leaving a lasting impact on the country's ballet scene. With her talent and dedication, she laid the foundations for classical ballet in Japan, inspiring and influencing countless dancers and choreographers. Messerer's professional life was defined by her passion for ballet and her commitment to its development on a global scale.

Elizaveta Khudaiberdieva is a prominent Russian ice dancer known for her exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. She has garnered numerous accolades throughout her career, including being the Russian champion and national bronze medalist with her current partner, Egor Bazin. Additionally, her previous partnership with Nikita Nazarov led to impressive results, such as winning silver at the World Junior Championships and bronze at the Junior Grand Prix Final. Khudaiberdieva's success extends to the ISU Junior Grand Prix series, where she secured multiple gold medals with various partners.

Olga Lomonosova is a versatile Russian actress and former ballerina known for her impactful performances on screen. With a successful career spanning both television and film, she has portrayed memorable characters such as Kira Voropayeva in the popular TV series Not Born Beautiful and Alla Safranov in the acclaimed Netflix series Better than Us. Lomonosova's talent and dedication have earned her recognition and praise from audiences and critics alike, establishing her as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Nikolai Alexandrovich Morozov is a Russian former competitive ice dancer turned coach and choreographer. He represented Russia, Belarus, and Azerbaijan in international competitions. Morozov has coached top figure skaters such as Shizuka Arakawa and Miki Ando to Olympic gold and World titles. He competed in ice dancing with partners from Belarus, Azerbaijan, and Russia, achieving placements at the Winter Olympics and World Championships. Morozov's professional career spans coaching, choreography, and successful partnerships in competitive ice dancing.

Alexander Alexeyevich Gorsky was a renowned Russian ballet choreographer known for his restaging of classical ballets such as The Nutcracker, Don Quixote, and Swan Lake. He was a contemporary of Marius Petipa and stood out for prioritizing acting skills over dance technique in his productions. This unique approach made him a controversial figure in the ballet world. Gorsky's innovative interpretations and emphasis on storytelling contributed to his legacy as one of the most influential choreographers of his time.

Ekaterina Shchelkanova is a versatile Russian artist known for her talents in ballet, singing, and acting. She gained recognition in the US for her role as Hunyak in Chicago and has appeared in various films and ballet companies. Shchelkanova is a Vaganova Academy graduate and former member of the Kirov Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. She has showcased her skills internationally with different ballet companies and founded the Open World Dance Foundation in 2010 to further promote dance education.