zoom_in Click to enlarge

Sergei Polunin

▲ ▼

description Sergei Polunin Overview

Sergei Polunins raw, emotionally charged performances have redefined male ballet. His technical brilliance is matched by his willingness to explore darker themes and challenge traditional notions of masculinity in dance. His controversial departure from the Royal Ballet initially sparked debate but ultimately solidified his status as a groundbreaking artist pushing boundaries with powerful solo works and collaborations. He embodies a new era of ballet, prioritizing vulnerability and authenticity.

help Sergei Polunin FAQ

Why did Sergei Polunin leave the Royal Ballet?

Polunin resigned abruptly in January 2012 after describing burnout and frustration with the demands of company life. He had risen unusually quickly, becoming a Royal Ballet principal in 2010 while still around 20.

What is Sergei Polunin's Hozier dance video?

It is a solo set to Hozier's "Take Me to Church," choreographed by Jade Hale-Christofi and directed by David LaChapelle. Released in 2015, the stripped-back video introduced Polunin to an audience far beyond classical ballet.

Which film tells Sergei Polunin's life story?

Steven Cantor's documentary Dancer follows Polunin's childhood, Royal Ballet ascent, and departure from the company. The film was released in the mid-2010s and includes the making of the "Take Me to Church" performance.

Which classical roles has Sergei Polunin performed since leaving London?

His repertoire has included Prince Siegfried in Swan Lake, Albrecht in Giselle, Solor in La Bayadère, and Crown Prince Rudolf in Mayerling. He performed several of these roles with Moscow's Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theatre.