State of the World from NPR Remembering a Ballet Legend in Russia; a Monkey Census in Nepal
May 30, 2025
A beloved figure in Russian ballet, Yuri Grigorovich, is remembered for his transformative influence on the Bolshoi and his role in projecting Soviet culture. Meanwhile, Nepal is tackling a unique challenge as locals endure food theft by monkeys. In a groundbreaking move, the government launches its first monkey census to better understand the invasive species and its impact on human lives. These stories highlight the intertwining of art, culture, and nature in unexpected ways.
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Grigorovich's Ballet Innovation
- Yuri Grigorovich transformed Soviet ballet with bold, athletic, and adventurous productions.
- His style contrasted sharply with the previous didactic and folk-influenced Soviet ballet tradition.
Public Tribute to Grigorovich
- Thousands lined up at the Bolshoi Theater to honor Grigorovich, recalling first seeing his iconic classics.
- His productions like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake became international sensations.
Ballet as Cold War Soft Power
- Grigorovich's ballet overseas performances served as Soviet cultural diplomacy at the Cold War peak.
- His large-scale storytelling contrasted with abstract dance popular in the West, appealing to many audiences.