The renowned choreographer concludes his 13-year tenure as artist in residence at ABT, leaving a lasting legacy.
Alexei Ratmansky, one of the world’s most celebrated ballet choreographers, is set to depart from his position as artist in residence at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in June 2023, the company confirmed on Thursday.
Having served as artist in residence for 13 years, Ratmansky will conclude his contract at the end of this season. While ABT expressed appreciation for his remarkable contributions to the company, it has not disclosed his future plans.
At 54, Ratmansky has earned global recognition for his expansive body of work, which includes reimagining ballet classics like "The Nutcracker" and "The Sleeping Beauty," as well as creating original pieces such as "Whipped Cream" and "Songs of Bukovina," which incorporated Ukrainian folk music.
A native of St. Petersburg, Russia, Ratmansky spent his early years in Kyiv, and continues to have strong ties to the region, with his parents still living there. He left Russia shortly after the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022. His most recent work, "Wartime Elegy," was dedicated to the people of Ukraine and premiered at Pacific Northwest Ballet in September, where he poignantly unfurled a Ukrainian flag during the curtain call.
Kevin McKenzie, the outgoing artistic director of ABT, praised Ratmansky's immense impact on the company, stating that he "pushed the bar of what is possible to achieve." Incoming artistic director Susan Jaffe also acknowledged Ratmansky’s influence, highlighting that his visionary approach has propelled ballet to new artistic heights.
Ratmansky himself expressed his gratitude for his time at ABT, calling it a "true privilege" to collaborate with its talented artists. While he departs, ABT will continue to showcase his works, with "Songs of Bukovina" scheduled for several performances during the 2023 Spring tour.
Hello world!
Pic of the week: Sunset at margate beach
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields
The first day’s journey was through the pink fields