Russia bid farewell to dance legend Yuri Grigorovich on Friday at the Bolshoi Theatre, where he served as the artistic director of one of the world’s most renowned ballet companies for many years.
Grigorovich, considered one of the 20th century’s most influential choreographers, passed away on Monday at the age of 98.
Leading figures from Russia’s arts community gathered inside the Bolshoi’s ornate auditorium to honor him. Grigorovich’s coffin was placed before the stage, accompanied by a large photograph of the ballet master.
Hundreds of Muscovites, many bearing flowers, waited outside the theatre in central Moscow, applauding as his casket was carried down the steps, along with a portrait of Grigorovich and three large floral wreaths.
“I really loved him. He was a genius… so I could not miss this farewell,” said pensioner Alexandra Tretyakova.
Grigorovich was celebrated for his productions of ballets such as Spartacus, Ivan the Terrible, and Romeo and Juliet, staged in Russia and internationally. He was particularly known for creating male roles that demanded exceptional strength and technique.
Ballerina Lyubov Filippova described the late choreographer as a “colossus” and an idol, telling Reuters that “This person will always remain with us, in our hearts, in our lives. And we should continue to learn from his ballets”.
