Ninel Kurgapkina, Nikolai Kovmir - 'Harlequinade' PDD, Solos

I first became aware of Ninel Kurgapkina through her partnership at the Kirov with Rudolph Nureyev before he defected to the West in 1961. Later she was a partner of Mikhail Baryshnikov, another famed defector. I've always had an admiration for this strong dancer and glad of the chance to upload film of her performances.

Kurgapkina was one of the last pupils of Agrippina Vaganova, graduating and joining the Kirov Ballet in 1947. She danced many of the principal roles in the company's repertory - Aurora in 'The Sleeping Beauty', Myrtha in 'Giselle', Odette-Odile in 'Swan Lake', Kitri in 'Don Quixote', Parasha in 'The Bronze Horseman' and in 'Viennese Waltz'.

While a major coach at the Kirov Theatre from 1969, Kurgapkina also taught at the New York City Ballet, the Paris Opera Ballet, and the La Scala Opera Ballet.

In 1972, the ballerina was appointed a director of the Vaganova Academy.

Sadly, this wonderful ballerina and teacher was killed in May 2009 in a road accident near St. Petersburg.

This is film of Ninel Kurgapkina partnered by Nikolai Kovmir in pas de deux and solos from 'Harlequinade'. Unfortunately the filming at times leaves something to be desired -- with the thing which annoys me most being feet getting chopped off.

Enjoy!