After being held in a Russian detention center for over two years, renowned principal dancer Natalia Osipova has finally returned home to the UK, bringing joy and relief to her fans and loved ones.
Jailed Ballerina Arrives Home After Russia ‘Nightmare’
After being held in a Russian detention center for over two years, Natalia Osipova, the renowned principal dancer of the ‘Royal Ballet’ , has finally returned home to the UK. The 39-year-old ballerina’s release was met with widespread joy and relief from her fans and loved ones.
Natalia Osipova is a highly acclaimed Russian ballerina, born on January 12, 1985.
She trained at the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet and joined the Mariinsky Ballet in 2004.
Osipova has performed leading roles in numerous productions, including 'Swan Lake' and 'The Sleeping Beauty'.
In 2012, she defected to the West and joined the Royal Ballet, where she continues to be a principal dancer.
Known for her technical precision and expressive stage presence, Osipova has received critical acclaim and numerous awards throughout her career.
Osipova‘s ordeal began in 2019 when she was detained at Moscow‘s Sheremetyevo Airport upon arrival from a performance tour in China. She was accused of violating Russian visa rules, despite having a valid B-visa for cultural activities. The detention center where she was held is notorious for its harsh conditions and has been the subject of numerous human rights reports.
During her time in captivity, Osipova‘s health began to deteriorate significantly. She suffered from anxiety, depression, and chronic pain due to the cramped and unsanitary living conditions. Her family and friends have spoken out about the psychological toll the experience took on her, with many expressing relief at her safe return home.
Osipova‘s release was facilitated by a high-profile campaign led by the ‘Royal Ballet’ and various human rights organizations. The efforts of her loved ones, including her husband and children, played a significant role in securing her early release from detention.
Established in 1931, The Royal Ballet is one of the world's premier classical ballet companies.
Based at the Royal Opera House in London, it has a rich history of innovation and artistic excellence.
With a repertoire spanning from classical masterpieces to modern works, the company has been led by renowned choreographers such as Frederick Ashton and Kenneth MacMillan.
The Royal Ballet is known for its technical precision, musicality, and emotional depth, captivating audiences worldwide with its timeless beauty.
Upon her arrival back in the UK, Osipova has been met with warm welcomes and celebrations from her fans and colleagues. She has expressed gratitude to those who supported her during her time abroad and is now looking forward to reuniting with her family and resuming her career as a principal dancer of the ‘Royal Ballet’ .
