Popularization of the School of Russian Ballet abroad by the Messerer-Plisetsky Dynasty

Abstract

The problem of preserving and popularizing ballet is one of the urgent problems of our time. Specific works and personalities primarily determine the significance and popularity of Russian ballet in the history of world choreography, while the history of Russian ballet’s development is determined by the talent and experience of performers, choreographers and teachers. 20th century was marked by a significant number of outstanding performers, among which a special place is taken by representatives of the Messerer — Plisetsky dynasty: Asaf, Shulamith and Mikhail Messerers, Maya, Alexander, Azariy and Anna Plisetsky. While representing and popularizing the Russian ballet school with their performances, staging and teaching activities, they created a special choreographic space that went beyond political boundaries. The study, based on autobiographical materials, considers the contribution to the popularization of Russian ballet by Sulamith Messerer, Maya and Azaria Plisetsky.