Rudolf Nureyev – The Life Book

Rudolf Nureyev – The Life Book is Julie Kavanagh’s definitive biography of one of the most electrifying and influential dancers in history, tracing his extraordinary rise from poverty in Stalin’s Russia to global ballet superstardom.

Born on a train and raised in hardship, Nureyev broke every rule: he dazzled audiences at the Kirov, defected dramatically to the West in 1961, ignited worldwide “Rudimania,” and forged an unforgettable partnership with Margot Fonteyn. Renowned for reinventing male technique, shaping new stars and bringing Russian ballet masterpieces to Western stages, he left an indelible mark on dance and culture. Kavanagh — a former Royal Ballet School dancer and acclaimed biographer — brings his brilliance, ambition and volatility vividly to life in this compelling portrait.

Key Features:

• Definitive biography of Rudolf Nureyev by Julie Kavanagh
• Charts his rise from Tatar peasant roots to global ballet icon
• Covers his dramatic defection, partnership with Margot Fonteyn and artistic legacy
• Richly detailed portrait of his influence on ballet, culture and celebrity
• Written by an esteemed critic, editor and author with deep ballet expertise