Natalia Bessmertnova Biography

Russian ballerina
Died: February 19, 2008 (Moscow, Russia)
Best Known as: Russian ballerina who performed with the Bolshoi Ballet

Natalia Bessmertnova was a ballerina known for her lightness, delicacy, and romantic style. She was born in Moscow, studied ballet at the Bolshoi’s school, and entered the company in 1961. Her debut performance with Bolshoi Ballet was in “Chopiniana.” Bessmertnova had a successful career performing in “Spartacus,” “Legend of Love,” “The Golden Age,” and “Swan Lake.” She was especially noted for her lyric, mysterious, and beautiful performance in “Giselle” in 1969. Russia honored her with a People’s Artist of the U.S.S.R. title in 1976 and a Lenin Prize in 1986.