The Kirov Ballet is renowned for being one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world. Founded in 1738, the company has been a major force in the development of ballet technique and has produced some of the greatest dancers and choreographers of all time. In 2004, it was announced that the company would change its name to the Mariinsky Ballet.
The decision to change its name was not taken lightly.
The Kirov Ballet was named after Sergei Kirov, a prominent figure in Soviet history. However, as times changed and Russia moved towards a more democratic society, it became increasingly clear that associating the company with such a controversial figure was no longer appropriate. By changing its name to Mariinsky Ballet, the company could distance itself from its past associations and create a new identity for itself.
The new name also serves as an homage to another great figure in Russian ballet history – Marius Petipa. Petipa was one of ballet’s most influential choreographers and is often credited with creating some of classical ballet’s most iconic works such as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and Giselle. By adopting his surname as their new name, the Kirov Ballet could pay tribute to his legacy while also creating a fresh start for their own future.
In addition to honoring Petipa’s work, changing the company’s name also provided them with an opportunity to expand internationally. The Mariinsky brand is now recognizable worldwide and serves as an instantly recognizable symbol for Russian culture and artistry. This increased global presence has allowed them to reach out to new audiences and expand their reach across continents.
In conclusion, changing its name from Kirov Ballet to Mariinsky Ballet gave the company an opportunity to distance itself from its past associations while paying tribute to one of ballet’s most influential figures – Marius Petipa. It also provided them with greater global recognition which has enabled them to reach out to new audiences around the world.
10 Related Question Answers Found
Spandau Ballet, one of the most influential British bands of the 1980s, rose to fame in the post-punk era with their classic hits such as ‘True’ and ‘Gold’. But what’s in a name? Why did Spandau Ballet choose that name?
Russia is a country that is known for its culture, art, and literature. One of the most famous arts in Russia is ballet. Ballet has been around in Russia since the 16th century, and it has been an important part of the culture ever since.
Ballet is an art form that has been around for centuries, and while it is often associated with beauty, grace, and elegance, the origin of its name is actually quite a bit more complex. Ballet was first developed in the Italian courts of the Renaissance period. It quickly spread to the French court and there it was taken up by King Louis XIV, who changed its name from “ballo” to “ballet.”
The word “ballet” itself comes from the Italian word “ballare” which means “to dance.” The French version of this term was then adapted by King Louis XIV and used to describe a specific type of dance that he had created.
The Bolshoi Ballet is one of the oldest and most renowned ballet companies in the world. Founded in 1776, it is based in Moscow, Russia and is renowned for its classical works such as “Swan Lake,” “The Nutcracker,” and “Sleeping Beauty.” But why is it called Bolshoi Ballet? The term “Bolshoi” actually comes from the Russian word большой, which means “big.” This term was chosen to reflect the grandeur and scale of the performances that were to be presented at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.
For centuries, the art of ballet has been admired by many across the globe. It is an art form that encompasses grace and elegance, strength and skill – all in one. Many countries have claimed to be the birthplace of ballet, but it is Russia that has become renowned for its excellence in this art form.
The Bolshoi Ballet is one of the most renowned ballet companies in the world. Founded in 1776, this celebrated company has been a major influence on ballet for centuries. Located in Moscow, Russia, the Bolshoi Ballet is renowned for its grand and elegant productions.
The Kirov Ballet, which was formerly known as the Imperial Russian Ballet, is one of the oldest and most esteemed ballet companies in the world. Founded in 1738 by Empress Anna Ivanovna, it has been an integral part of Russian culture for centuries. The company is known for its classical style and its commitment to preserving the traditional techniques of Russian ballet.
Founded by Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino in 1956, the Joffrey Ballet was started in New York City. The company quickly became known for its cutting-edge and modern approach to classical ballet. After twenty years in New York, the Joffrey Ballet made the move to Chicago in 1995, where it has been ever since.
The Ballets Russes was an internationally renowned ballet company of the early 20th century. Founded in 1909 by the legendary dancer, Sergei Diaghilev, the Ballets Russes was one of the most influential and innovative companies of its time. The company featured an all-star cast of dancers from around the world, including Anna Pavlova, Vaslav Nijinsky and Bronislava Nijinska.
Ballet is a form of dance that has been around for centuries, and it is still practiced today in hundreds of countries. It is a demanding art form, requiring great strength and flexibility from its dancers. Ballet also has unique aesthetic appeal; its graceful movements, combined with elegant costumes and intricate footwork, make it one of the most beautiful performing arts.
