Mikhail Baryshnikov

Date of Birth: January 27, 1948

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Biography

Mikhail Baryshnikov, often regarded as one of the greatest ballet dancers of the 20th century, was born on January 27, 1948, in Riga, Latvia. His talents were evident from a young age, and he was enrolled in the Vaganova School in Leningrad. Baryshnikov’s career took off when he joined the Kirov Ballet, where he quickly became a principal dancer. However, in 1974, during a tour in Canada, he defected from the Soviet Union to seek artistic freedom. Baryshnikov’s Western career began with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), where his performances gained critical acclaim. He later joined the New York City Ballet, working under the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Baryshnikov also explored modern dance, collaborating with choreographers like Twyla Tharp. Beyond ballet, Baryshnikov has had a significant impact on the arts through his acting career in film and television, including an iconic role in the film “The Turning Point” and a recurring role on the television series “Sex and the City.” He founded the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City, a space dedicated to the development of multidisciplinary artists.

5 Interesting Facts about Mikhail Baryshnikov

1. Mikhail Baryshnikov defected from the Soviet Union in 1974 while on tour in Toronto, Canada.

2. He became the artistic director of the American Ballet Theatre from 1980 to 1989.

3. Baryshnikov has received numerous awards, including the Kennedy Center Honors in 2000.

4. He has acted in several films and TV series, including “The Turning Point” and “Sex and the City.”

5. Baryshnikov is also a photographer and has had his work exhibited in galleries.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mikhail Baryshnikov

1. “No dancer can watch Fred Astaire and not know that we all should have been in another business.”

2. “I do not try to dance better than anyone else. I only try to dance better than myself.”

3. “The essence of all art is to have pleasure in giving pleasure.”

4. “Fundamentals are the building blocks of fun.”

5. “I was born to be a dancer and nothing else. It’s a compulsion, an obsession, and a joy.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Mikhail Baryshnikov’s net worth was estimated to be around $45 million.

Children

Mikhail Baryshnikov has four children: 1. Aleksandra Lange “Shura” Baryshnikov, with actress Jessica Lange. 2. Peter Andrew Baryshnikov, with his partner, Lisa Rinehart. 3. Anna Katerina Baryshnikov, with Lisa Rinehart. 4. Sofia-Luisa Baryshnikov, with Lisa Rinehart.