A Life Well Danced: Maria Zybina's Russian Heritage Her Legacy of Classical Ballet and Character Dance Across Europe

"A Life Well Danced" explores the relationship between ballet teachers and dancers within the Russian classical tradition, focusing on the experiences of a young girl who lived through emigration and displacement. It also touches on the teaching and performing of European character dance, which is an under-appreciated field. The book was inspired by the authors direct connection to the flowering of Russian classical ballet in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2023
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

"A Life Well Danced" delves into the captivating world of ballet teachers and their journey to becoming educators. It explores the intricate relationship between teachers and dancers within the context of the Russian classical tradition, shedding light on the themes of "emigration, displacement, and the transmission of experience across generations." The book takes us on a journey through the life of a young girl who faced the challenges of emigration and displacement during the Russian Revolution and later experienced these same hardships as an adult after the Second World War. Despite these adversities, she managed to establish a successful career as a teacher, examiner, and choreographer, leaving a lasting impact on the world of ballet.

"A Life Well Danced" draws inspiration from the authors personal connection to Zybina, a renowned ballet teacher who played a significant role in the flourishing of Russian classical ballet in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Through her interactions with Nicolai Legat, Evgenia Eduardova, and Elena Poliakova, the authors gained firsthand insights into the rich heritage of Russian ballet. The book weaves together memoirs, first-hand accounts, and interviews with Zybina to provide vivid descriptions of the Imperial Theatre School and the Mariinsky ballet company in St. Petersburg.

Born in Moscow, Zybina and her family were forced to flee to Europe during the Russian Revolution. Her first marriage to an English diplomat led her to Belgrade, where she pursued a career as a dancer and ballet mistress. However, the Second World War brought her to England, where she established her ballet school and became an examiner for the Federati. It was during this time that she encountered a strange twist of fate that brought her back to the world of ballet, where she continued to make her mark as an influential educator and performer.

"A Life Well Danced" offers a unique perspective on the world of ballet, shedding light on the experiences and challenges faced by teachers and dancers alike. It provides a valuable contribution to the literature on dance and education, offering insights into the artistic and personal journeys of those who have dedicated their lives to the art form. Whether you are a ballet enthusiast, educator, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and power of dance, this book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the rich tapestry of the ballet world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803134826