Ukrainian Heritage Shapes Alexei Ratmansky’s Choreographic Vision

Alexei Ratmansky, a renowned choreographer with roots in Ukraine, has shifted his artistic focus towards celebrating Ukrainian culture amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Born in St. Petersburg to a Ukrainian Jewish father and a Russian mother, Ratmansky grew up in Kyiv, where he initially trained at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy. His journey in dance eventually led him to positions of prominence, including a directorship at the Bolshoi Ballet from 2004 to 2008 and an artist residency with the American Ballet Theatre from 2009 to 2023.

In 2023, Ratmansky became an artist in residence at the New York City Ballet, where he continues to develop his innovative choreography. His upcoming performance of Pictures at an Exhibition in London this month highlights his evolving artistic narrative.

As an outspoken critic of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Ratmansky has faced backlash from former colleagues who have labeled him a traitor. Despite this, the Bolshoi Ballet still performs his works, demonstrating the complex relationship between art and national identity. Ratmansky’s comments reflect his desire to distance himself from Russian artistic influences and emphasize a commitment to Ukrainian culture.

Embracing Ukrainian Identity in Dance

Ratmansky has expressed a strong intention to focus on Ukrainian ballet history and music, stating, “If I have a choice, I try to choose differently.” He acknowledges the profound horror of the war and the resilience of Ukrainian artists who continue to perform under dire circumstances. “All the Ukrainian companies continue performing. They lost half of their dancers, but they continue functioning,” he noted.

This resilience is evident in the actions of Ukrainian performers, who often stage new ballets despite the war. Ratmansky describes an extraordinary cultural revival, declaring, “It’s a rebirth of the nation.” He shared a poignant example of a principal dancer from the National Ballet of Ukraine, who, despite living in a destroyed apartment, continues to rehearse.

The Personal Toll of Conflict

The ongoing conflict weighs heavily on Ratmansky, as he remains connected to family in Ukraine. “You go to bed checking and check first thing in the morning,” he explained, reflecting on the anxiety of potential missile attacks. Despite the challenges, he admires the resilience and humor of his family and friends who continue to live their lives amidst chaos.

Ratmansky’s reflections extend beyond personal concerns, touching on broader political dynamics, particularly regarding the relationship between the United States and Russia. He described seeing former President Donald Trump meet with Vladimir Putin in Alaska as a “nightmare,” emphasizing the need for vigilance in defending democratic values.

In light of the invasion of Crimea in 2014, Ratmansky has reassessed his past decisions, particularly his return to the Bolshoi. He admitted, “I feel really bad” about previously separating art from politics, acknowledging that art cannot exist in a vacuum devoid of moral considerations. His upcoming ballet, Solitude, set to premiere in 2024, is inspired by the tragic story of a Ukrainian man who lost his son to a Russian airstrike.

Through this work, Ratmansky aims to confront the realities of war while remaining true to the emotional depth of ballet. He recognizes the challenges of merging stark realities with the ideals of dance but insists on the importance of addressing these themes. “I need to constantly see the faces of people killed just to not lose a sense of danger,” he stated, underscoring his commitment to portraying the human experience through his art.

As Ratmansky continues to navigate his dual heritage and the implications of the ongoing conflict, his work serves as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Ukrainian culture and the role of art in times of crisis.