Nureyev, Rudolf, 1938-1993

Rudolf Khametovich Nureyev (17 March 1938 – 6 January 1993) was a Soviet-born ballet dancer and choreographer. Nureyev is widely regarded as the preeminent male ballet dancer of the 20th century, as well as one of the greatest ballet dancers of all time. Nureyev was born on a Trans-Siberian train near Lake Baikal, in Siberia, Soviet Union, to a Tatar family. He began his career in Leningrad with the company that in the Soviet era was called the Kirov Ballet. In 1961, he defected to the West, despite KGB efforts to stop him. This was the first defection of a Soviet artist during the Cold War, and it created an international sensation. He went on to dance with The Royal Ballet in London and became a global star. Known for his charisma, technical brilliance, and intense stage presence, Nureyev helped elevate the role of the male dancer in ballet. From 1983 to 1989, he directed the Paris Opera Ballet and became its chief choreographer. He also produced his own interpretations of numerous classical works, including Swan Lake, Giselle, and La Bayadère.