Legends of Russian Ballet. Petipa, Fokin, Diaghilev and Others

The book by the famous Russian ballet historian, critic, and playwright Valerian Svetlov reveals the image of the "golden age" of Russian ballet - through the eyes of not only an art historian but also a contemporary who personally knew many artists and choreographers of that era.
Valerian Svetlov participated in the organization of the "Russian Seasons" of 1909 in Paris as part of the Committee under Sergei Diaghilev. The book covers a key stage in the development of national ballet: from the classical productions of Marius Petipa to the innovative performances of Mikhail Fokin, created for Diaghilev's troupe. Special attention is paid to the role of Isadora Duncan, who laid the foundations of a new plasticity and inspired a whole generation of choreographers.
The focus is on the greatest masters of the Russian stage: Matilda Kschessinskaya, Anna Pavlova, Tamara Karsavina, Vaslav Nijinsky, Vera Trefilova. The author discusses their creative paths, analyzes ballets that have become a part of the world's choreographic heritage. The book also addresses issues of the interaction between dance, music, stage design, and the evolution of ballet costumes.
The publication is complemented by rare archival materials, photographs, posters, and programs of performances, which allows for the recreation of the atmosphere of the time and makes the book a valuable source on the history of Russian ballet.