“On the evening of June 29, 1974, following a performance with the Bolshoi Ballet in downtown Toronto, Mikhail Baryshnikov, then 26, decided to defect from the Soviet Union and embark on a new journey in the West. Evading K.G.B. agents and adoring fans seeking autographs, he made his way to a waiting car where Canadian and American friends were waiting. Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Baryshnikov, now 76, recalled how that car symbolized his entry into the free world and the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
His daring escape garnered widespread attention, with headlines declaring his defection from the Soviet Union. Despite the notoriety, Baryshnikov has expressed discomfort with the term ‘defector,’ preferring to view his decision as a choice rather than an act of betrayal. Born in Riga, now part of Latvia, he moved to Leningrad at 16 to pursue his passion for dance, eventually joining the Kirov Ballet and rising to stardom in the Russian ballet scene.
After settling in New York post-defection, Baryshnikov’s career flourished as he joined American Ballet Theater and later New York City Ballet. A prominent figure in ballet during the 1970s and ’80s, he also ventured into acting, appearing in films like ‘The Turning Point’ and the TV series ‘Sex and the City.’ In 2005, he founded the Baryshnikov Arts Center in Manhattan, showcasing dance, music, and other artistic endeavors.
In recent years, Baryshnikov has become increasingly vocal about political issues, criticizing figures like former President Donald J. Trump and speaking out against Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of his defection, he emphasized the importance of artistic freedom and his commitment to supporting causes he believes in.
Despite his success and acclaim, Baryshnikov remains grounded, acknowledging the challenges and sacrifices he has faced along the way. His journey from Soviet defector to cultural icon serves as a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to his art.”