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Poison attacks and cannibal scientists: the twisted world of ballet

The Upshot

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The Dark Side of Ballet: Art and Desperation in Stalinist Russia

This chapter delves into the chilling ambiance of ballet under Stalinist rule, revealing the pervasive fear that artists faced during their performances. It shares a haunting story of two ballerinas who took drastic measures to gain favor, illustrating the perilous intersection of art and political survival.

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