In the course of his career, Mikhail Baryshnikov has been able to set the standards that classical ballet dancers are expected to reach. However, at the same time, he succeeded in popularizing various elements of this dancing style through his work in cinematography and theatre. This is the main argument that should be discussed. This paper will include several important aspects such as his relations with a famous choreographer Alexander Ivanovich Pushkin, the defection from the Soviet Union, and subsequent career. These issues are important for appreciating his work.
One of the main turning points in Baryshnikov’s career is his encounter with the distinguished choreographer Alexander Ivanovich Pushkin who significantly influenced his worldviews. This educator did not only teach him various technical elements of classical ballet.
He also helped Baryshnikov adjust to regular, exhausting, and tedious exercises because they enable ballet dancers to retain their physical fitness. Similarly, Pushkin assisted Baryshnikov in developing an individual style which manifested itself during various performances. Overall, this partnership laid the foundation of Baryshnikov’s career. However, Baryshnikov had to struggle with several difficulties while living in the Soviet Union and he was compelled to move abroad. Much attention should be paid to the motives that prompted him to take this choice.
It should be mentioned that Soviet ballet dancers had a very limited repertoire, In many cases, they could not use the elements of other dancing styles. So, sometimes it could be difficult for them to fulfill one’s creative potential. This is one of the obstacles that Mikhail Baryshnikov had to overcome. He chose to stay in Canada during the tour that took place in 1974. One should keep in mind that this decision could be very risky because a person, who tried to flee the Soviet Union, could face prosecution.
For example, the career of this individual could be easily ruined. This is one of the issues that should be taken into account. In turn, much attention should be paid to his work in Western countries because it was an entirely new stage in his career.
Overall, Baryshnikov was able to make considerable achievements in various fields. In particular, he became a leading dancer in prominent theater companies such as New York City Ballet. Furthermore, he had an opportunity to dance with various performers such as Alvin Ailey or Jerome Robbins. He was able to combine the elements of classical ballet with other dancing styles. To a great extent, he succeeded in popularizing classical ballet in the United States. Furthermore, he played roles in various films that received critical acclaim. For example, one can mention such a movie as The Turning Point. Additionally, Baryshnikov could take part in various theatrical performances that were not always related to classical ballet. Thus, his career became much more diverse. This is the points that can be made.
To a great extent, the work of Mikhail Baryshnikov exemplifies a successful career that many people can crave for. Nevertheless, he was able attain this result due to his individual style, diligence, and willingness to take risky decisions. Although Baryshnikov is renowned as a classical ballet dancer; he also wanted to broaden his repertoire. This is why he cooperated with performers who could represent various dancing styles. Moreover, his cinematographic works also brought him recognition. These are the main details that can be singled out.