Censorship claims after Bolshoi cancels show

Russia’s Bolshoi Theatre has cancelled a ballet about dancer Rudolf Nureyev just three days before the opening night, prompting claims of state censorship.

The Russian Culture Ministry yesterday confirmed reports that the decision was announced after the minister spoke with the theatre’s director.

Bolshoi director Vladimir Urin said the production has been postponed until next year, saying the ballet was not ready.

The ballet about Nureyev, who defected from the Soviet Union to the West in 1961, was directed by Kirill Serebrennikov, known for poking fun at Russia’s social conservatism.

Mr Urin denied reports that the show had been scrapped because of its frank portrayal of Nureyev’s gay relationships.

The Culture Ministry denied reports that the ballet was banned by Culture Minister Vladimir Medinsky because of its portrayal of homosexuality and denied applying any pressure on the Bolshoi.