Ballet is a beautiful form of dance that has transformed over the centuries. There have been some incredible dancers who have left their mark on the art form, and choosing just one to be the best of all time is a difficult task.
Mikhail Baryshnikov is often considered to be one of the greatest ballet dancers of all time. He was born in Riga, Latvia in 1948 and began his training at the age of eleven.
He quickly rose to prominence and became principal dancer for the Kirov Ballet in 1974. His combination of virtuosic technique, strength and artistry made him one of the most acclaimed performers in ballet history. He went on to create works for many major companies including New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre and Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
Margot Fonteyn was another iconic figure in ballet history. She was born in England in 1919 and began her training at an early age.
After studying with renowned teachers such as Enrico Cecchetti and Nikolai Legat, she joined the Vic-Wells Ballet (now known as The Royal Ballet). She quickly rose to prominence, becoming prima ballerina assoluta at just 21 years old. Her graceful technique, musicality and expressiveness earned her international fame and she went on to become one of the most beloved dancers of all time.
Natalia Makarova is another legendary figure in ballet history. She was born in Leningrad (now St Petersburg) in 1940 and began her training at The Vaganova School when she was just nine years old.
After joining the Kirov Ballet (now Mariinsky) she quickly became renowned for her technical prowess and expressive style. She went on to become principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre where she created some of her most memorable roles including Swan Lake’s Odette/Odile, Giselle’s title role and La Bayadere’s Nikiya.
These three dancers are all considered to be among the greatest ballet dancers of all time, but it’s impossible to say who is definitively ‘the best’ as each has had an indelible impact on their own generation as well as future generations through their performances and works. Ultimately it’s up to each individual person to decide who they think deserves this honour.
Conclusion: While it’s impossible to definitively declare who is ‘the best’ ballet dancer of all time, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Margot Fonteyn and Natalia Makarova are all considered among some of the greatest dancers ever known – each having made an indelible impact on ballet through their performances and works. Ultimately it’s up to each individual person to decide who they think deserves this honour