Prima Ballerina Assolutas
I was reading Maya Plisetskaya’s autobiography (great read!) and it got me thinking. I still find it sad that the phrase “Assoluta” has sort of been laid to rest. Originally designated to Pierina Legnani by Marius Petipa to describe, who he felt, was “The leading dancer in all of Europe”. Although, it was never a refined system and a good chunk of the few designated Primas with the title are disputed/unofficial. Petipa himself formally objected to Kschessinska being awarded the title (one of many petty feuds between the prima and the ballet master. Honestly 1800s Mariinsky troupe drama is so entertaining I could go on all day about it) But it adds a level of prestige, in a world of so many companies both national & regional. It’s certainly a shame that certain dancers never got the honour awarded to them, despite being the greatest heralded (and in demand) dancers of their eras (think Sylvie Guillem, Ulyana Lopatkina, Darcey Bussel). The only still dancing assoluta left is Alessandra Ferri and she is slowly fading out, especially with her new role at the Weiner Staatsoper.
As far as current Primas with the potential for the title, I really think Zakharova could have easily been awarded one by now. It’s a shame that her long-standing controversial political associations have likely hindered any potential for that sort of honour internationally. Just for her sheer presence in the dance world I can’t think of another dancer who holds such a grip on what is considered a “prima”. In talent terms, Osipova should be up there too for her contributions to the world of flying.
Anyway: here’s some photos of the currently recognised Prima Ballerina Assolutas:
Pierina Lagnani - Italian - Mariinsky Ballet
Mathilda Kschessinska - Russian - Mariinsky Ballet
Alicia Markova - British - ENB/ The Royal Ballet
Attilia Redice - Italian - Rome Opera Ballet
Galina Ulanova - Russian - Bolshoi Ballet
Alicia Alonso - Cuban - Cuban National Ballet (Unofficial)
Maya Plisetskaya - Russian - Bolshoi Ballet
Eva Evdokimova - Bulgarian/American - Royal Danish Ballet (also unofficial/sanctioned - appointed by the Mariinsky)
Margot Fonteyn - British - Royal Ballet
Yvette Chauviré - French - Paris Opera Ballet
Anneli Alhanko - Swedish - Royal Swedish Ballet (appointed by the Bolshoi)
Phyllis Spira - South African - Royal Ballet/CAPAB Ballet
Alessandra Ferri - Italian - Royal Ballet/ABT/La Scala
baratheonpilled
kianamaiart
annaxmalina
germansingergirl
dededos
romaincrisis
