On 25 June, the Opening Ceremony of the XV International Ballet Competition took place on the Historic Stage of the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia. This year, the Competition is dedicated to the legendary choreographer Yuri Grigorovich, who served for more than 50 years as its Chairman and Artistic Director.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks by Tatiana Golikova, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, and Svetlana Zakharova, People’s Artist of Russia and Chair of the Competition Jury.
“First launched back in 1969, this truly legendary competition is rightly considered one of the oldest and most significant events on the cultural calendar. This year marks its 57th anniversary and its milestone fifteenth edition. Over the years, the International Ballet Competition has paid tribute to outstanding figures of Russian and world ballet. In 2026, it is dedicated to the legendary choreographer Yuri Grigorovich, who served for more than 50 years as its Chairman and Artistic Director. This year, we received 362 applications, with young artists from 35 countries taking part in the selection process. Of these, 158 of the strongest participants from 30 countries have earned the right to appear on the celebrated stage of the Bolshoi Theatre of Russia and demonstrate their artistry. Today, this legendary stage once again brings nations together, giving participants from around the world the opportunity to showcase their talent, connect with great traditions and gain invaluable professional experience,” said Tatiana Golikova.
To mark the opening of the Competition, the Mariinsky Theatre presented a landmark production: Arif Melikov’s ballet The Legend of Love, staged by Yuri Grigorovich. The leading roles were performed by a truly stellar cast: Victoria Tereshkina, prima ballerina and People’s Artist of Russia; Renata Shakirova, prima ballerina; Kimin Kim, principal dancer of the Mariinsky Ballet; and Roman Belyakov, first soloist.
Among the guests of honour were Olga Lyubimova, Minister of Culture of the Russian Federation; members of the Government of the Russian Federation; representatives of the diplomatic corps from various countries; and distinguished figures of Russian and international ballet.
The Competition rounds begin on 27 June. Traditionally, contestants will compete in two age categories: junior, for participants under 19, and senior, for participants under 27.
The Competition was established by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation. It is organized by ROSCONCERT.