Comprehensive and detailed account of Diaghilev and the founding of the Ballets Russes, encompassing not only the heady early days but going on to explore what happened next, taking on the story of ballet to the present day. It’s a fascinating tale and a must-read for any Russophile or ballet enthusiast, as well as anyone interested in European culture in the 20th century, because the author ranges far and wild, looking at all the characters who were so influential in so many areas of the arts. Meticulously researched, informative, well-written and with a good selection of photographs. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

I have always been fascinated by ballet. The watching of it, not the practicing of it. Furthermore, I find myself a bit of a Russophile, especially when it relates to all things Romanov. The Soviet Era interests me a little less.

I admit I had no idea who Serge Diaghilev was before starting this book. I know he lends his name to this title, and figured it would heavily feature him. And it does.

The arts always tend to loosen the rigidity of social structure. I think artists just feel a bit freer to be who they are. The book touches on Diaghilev's romantic relationships, some of which seem questionable, not because they are gay, but because they are basically teacher/student. Positions of power invite question.

The middle was a bit of a slog to get through. However, the beginning and the end both interested me greatly. I particularly liked reading about the baby ballerinas, and how certain ballet dancers Russified their names to make them more palatable to ballet going audiences.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.

Thank you Net Galley for the free ARC. I don't know where my fascination with classical ballet comes from and I am certainly no expert, but this was a very enjoyable history of the ballets russes at the beginning of the 20th century. The dancers like Nijinsky, Karasova and Pavlova, the ballets like L'apres-midi d'un faune, Les sylphides and the Firebird, what an amazing combination! Good reading.

I love ballet, it was a dream to be a ballerina but it never happened. So I always look forward to read books about Ballerina. This was beautifully done book about ballet, Rupert Christiansen has a great writing style and I was invested in what was written. I had enjoyed the previous book that I read called City of Light so I knew it was going to be a good book and I'm glad I was right.