People’s Artiste of USSR and Director of the Berezka Ensemble Mira Koltsova turns 75 today. She has received congratulatory messages from Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.
“A talented dancer, ballettmeister and teacher, you have done much to preserve and develop the traditions of Russian art,” Prime Minister Medvedev wrote. “As the leading soloist of the renowned Berezka Ensemble you have won the hearts of admirers not only in our country but also far beyond, and today as the leader of the ensemble you continue to wow audiences with ne concert programs.”
“A renowned choreographer and teacher, you are making a distinguished contribution to the development of Russian ballet,” Sergei Sobyanin wrote. “You are naturally endowed with great talent and enormous energy. Every performance of your unique Berezka Ensemble showcases virtuoso performances, perfect technique and unparalleled mastery of your dancers, which adds a distinctive color to our rich national culture.”
The Berezka Ensemble was set up in 1948, by choreographer Nadezhda Nadezhdina. Since then, it has become a symbol of sorts, something that Russia has been identified with. Having traveled to over 80 countries for performances, the troupe has recently made the news for something other than their famous floating step. The dancers have covered over 47,000 dancing kilometers, through their signature step, RT reports. That’s longer than the diameter of the Earth!
Russkiy Mir Foundation Information Service
