Rudolf Nureyev: A Life in Dance

This special exhibition is dedicated to the life and work of the legendary dancer and choreographer Rudolf Nureyev (1938–1993). It will showcase more than 80 costumes and 50 photographs from the dancer’s personal collection, entrusted to the Centre national du costume de scène by the Rudolf Nureyev Foundation, and will incorporate key loans from active ballet companies.

Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco

The Soviet-born Nureyev was a rising star in his native country before he defected to France in 1963. He was soon recognized worldwide as the most magnificent and charismatic dancer of his time. Incredibly driven, he traveled the world to work with leading figures in the dance world in order to absorb their techniques and to promote Soviet dance. Nureyev loved sumptuous shows and was particular about his costumes, often imposing changes and improvements. The costumes on view expose the wear and tear of daily use, bearing witness to the lives and bodies of Nureyev and his partners Margot Fonteyn, Noella Pontois and so many others.

Rudolf Nureyev: A Life in Dance
October 6, 2012 – February 17, 2013

Exhibition organized by the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco in collaboration with the Centre national du costume de scène.
Major Patron The Bernard Osher Foundation.

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