Legendary Russian choreographer Igor Moiseyev dies at 101
Legendary Russian folk dance choreographer Igor Moiseyev died of heart failure during the night at the age of 101, a spokesman for the Russian Culture Agency said.
Moiseyev established the Soviet Union's first folk dance group in 1937, Moiseyev Dance Company, now globally renowned for its interpretations of traditional dance, and served as its artistic director for six decades.
The choreographer received numerous awards, including three Lenin Orders and several foreign titles.
The Moscow government gave Moiseyev the "Legend of the Century" title in 2001. He also shared an award for his "outstanding contribution to the development of cultural relations between the U.S. and Russia" with pianist Van Cliburn and cellist Mstislav Rostropovich.
When he turned 95, Moiseyev received one of UNESCO's most prestigious awards, the Mozart Medal, for his "outstanding contribution to world music culture."
At a gala performance held at the Kremlin palace in Moscow on Moiseyev's 100th birthday, President Vladimir Putin presented the choreographer with Russia's top civilian honor for his services to the nation.
Moiseyev will be buried at the Novodevichye cemetery on November 7.
Legendary Russian folk dance choreographer Igor Moiseyev died of heart failure during the night at the age of 101, a spokesman for the Russian Culture Agency said.
