Our
Nutcracker Ballet has been seen by thousands, many of whom return year after year. We were also the subject of Serene Dillman's acclaimed documentary "Getting to the Nutcracker" which was shown in theaters and on PBS. MDSB students have been privileged to perform alongside guest artists
Maria Kochetkova of San Francisco Ballet,
Joaquin De Luz of New York City Ballet,
Gennadi Nedvigin of San Francisco Ballet, and
Vitor Luiz of San Francisco Ballet.
Founded in 2001, the
Marat Daukayev School of Ballet's mission is to provide training based on the Vaganova method, devised by the Russian dancer Agrippina Vaganova (1879-1951). It fuses elements of traditional French style from the romantic era with the athleticism and virtuosity of Italian technique. Students who study ballet at MDSB will acquire physical coordination, self-confidence, and a love for the arts that will benefit them throughout their lives.
The
Marat Daukayev Ballet Theatre is a non-profit 501(c) 3. established to help bring ballet to children and adults who might not otherwise have the means to experience the art form. While the Marat Daukayev School of Ballet and the Marat Daukayev Ballet Theatre are two separate legal entities, Marat Daukayev is director of both.
Marat Daukayev received his professional training at the Vaganova and Perm Ballet Schools.
In 1972, he won the Bronze Medal at the Varna International Ballet Competition. He was subsequently invited to join the Kirov as a soloist where he was quickly promoted to principal dancer.
During his 20 year career he danced the leading male roles in the complete repertoire of classical ballets with numerous international ballet tours. He has also performed in both film and television. St. Petersburg audiences loved him for the brilliant technique and exceptional dramatic ability that he brought to his roles.
In 1977, Mr. Daukayev received the Russian State Award for his artistic achievement. In 1983, he was named
People's Artist, the highest honor bestowed by the Russian State.
From 1992 to 1997, Mr. Daukayev was teacher and coach to principal dancers of the Kirov Ballet, helping to create the next generation of stars. In 1995, Mr. Daukayev was invited as a guest teacher to Los Angeles, where he met his wife, Pamela.
Mr. Daukayev was appointed Ballet Master to Colorado Ballet in 1999. From 2007 to 2009, he served as Artistic Director of the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washington D.C. Mr. Daukayev returned full time to Los Angeles in 2010 to give his undivided attention to directing and teaching at Marat Daukayev School of Ballet.
