Nureyev

Rudolf Nureyev - an icon of ballet

With a composition by Ilya Demutsky and choreography by Yuri Possokhov, this large-scale production blends ballet, opera, and drama, including a large ensemble, to create a striking homage to the life and career of Rudolf Nureyev, one of the greatest dancers of the 20th century. His artistic brilliance and his unconventional approach to transcending social and political boundaries made him an icon of ballet and the art world.


The story unfolds through an elaborately staged reenactment of an auction in which Nureyev's personal belongings are auctioned off. Kirill Serebrennikov combines classical and modern aesthetics with haunting scenes from Nureyev's life:
from his extraordinary career in the Soviet Union to his spectacular escape to the West and his formative influence on the Western ballet scene. His relationships and the open portrayal of his homosexuality are also explored.


After its celebrated premiere in Russia, the work was highly praised for its emotional depth and visual power – and at the same time, fiercely debated. Following the tightening of LGBTQ laws in 2022, Nureyev disappeared from the Bolshoi Theater's program, arguing that the piece violated the ban on propaganda of "non-traditional values." Since then, Kirill Serebrennikov has lived in exile in France and Germany.

This monumental dance event is not only a special moment for the Berlin State Ballet, but also offers the opportunity to experience the unique story of an artist who not only revolutionized the ballet world but also stood for artistic freedom and individual self-determination.

• 2:20 a.m., including one intermission