Legendary Dancer Farukh Ruzimatov's Final Japan Performance Starts June 13th: A Miracle Comes True for a 100-Year-Old Fan

'Scheherazade' from the 2004 Japan Tour, Ruzimatov and Makhalina in 'Le Corsaire' from the 2003 Japan Tour Photo: Hidemi Seto © KORANSHA

Farukh Ruzimatov first visited Japan as a principal dancer of the Mariinsky Ballet in 1986 and has enjoyed immense popularity over the decades. With overwhelming charisma and highly refined physical expression born from unwavering fundamentals, his unique artistry continues to garner admiration and respect from dancers around the world.

In this performance, he will present Japan premieres of new works such as 'The King Dances' and 'Ne me quitte pas', as well as the popular piece 'Bolero' (choreographed by Androsov). Furthermore, dancers who admire Ruzimatov will gather from the Bolshoi Ballet and the Mikhailovsky Theatre to perform a special program featuring his signature works and famous scenes. Additionally, his son, Dalel Ruzimatov, who is active in the Mariinsky Ballet, will make his first visit to Japan. He will dance a piece created from anecdotes with his father, drawing attention to the intergenerational transmission of art.

'The King Dances' Japan Premiere F. Ruzimatov

Son Dalel

'A Special Presence in Life'

A 100-Year-Old Fan Talks About Ruzimatov

One of the fans eagerly anticipating Ruzimatov's final Japan tour is Mieko Hamanaka, who lives in an elderly care facility in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Hamanaka, who turns 100 this year, has been a devoted fan attending Ruzimatov's Japan performances since the 1990s. 'I watched him every time he came to Japan. I love his "dancing." I love beautiful things,' she smiles.

According to the facility staff, Hamanaka still carefully keeps Ruzimatov's photo books and repeatedly talks about the performances of those days and his charm.

'It seems his ballet has been a special presence in her life, and those memories remain vivid today. Knowing that this is his final Japan performance, I wanted to let her see him live on stage one more time,' says Jun Fujii, a nurse.

To fulfill Hamanaka's long-held wish, Fujii applied for the facility's <Dream Plan> project and made the theater visit a reality.

Nurse Jun Fujii and Mieko Hamanaka

Ruzimatov's final Japan performance coincides with Hamanaka turning 100—this serendipity made the performance even more special for her. In addition, it was a season when the elderly Hamanaka could easily travel far, she was in good health, and the facility and surrounding support systems were well prepared. Furthermore, the applied project was realized, bringing together various favorable conditions. Above all, Hamanaka's feeling that 'Ruzimatov is special in my life' moved Nurse Fujii, the facility staff, and even the performance organizers.

Hamanaka will watch Program B on June 17th. Ruzimatov will perform in the Japan premiere of 'The King Dances'.

'Ruzimatov isn't a prince to me. He's definitely a king, I suppose.'

When talking about Ruzimatov, her expression shines so much that one wouldn't think she is turning 100.

Born in the last year of the Taisho era, living through the Showa era, and spending time from the Heisei to the Reiwa era, Hamanaka says that since she learned about Ruzimatov, looking forward to his stage performances has been her greatest joy.

The feeling of 'liking' someone makes people positive and boosts their vitality to live. Ruzimatov continues to bring brilliance to Hamanaka's life.

'It's been a long time. I can't believe I can watch him again.'

Saying so, Hamanaka is also practicing traveling by car in preparation for the day of the performance.

☆ Column article here: 'A Miracle Comes True for a 100-Year-Old Fan - Ruzimatov's Final Japan Performance'

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Exactly 40 Years Since First Visit, Approximately 70 Visits to Japan!

The Charismatic Dancer's Final Stage

Ruzimatov will turn 63 shortly after this performance. His sculptural physique is maintained through daily stoic practice, surprising even active dancers. Furthermore, he continues to hold such a passion for the ballet stage that he is always working on new pieces.

The gala performance 'All of Ruzimatov' held in Japan has been a special performance for many fans and held a special meaning for Ruzimatov himself. As the title suggests, it has been loved for many years as a performance where all of the current Ruzimatov is showcased and the essence of his artistry can be touched. And this will be the last time to see this performance in Japan.

The final stage that even a 100-year-old fan has been waiting for.

Forty years since his first visit in 1986. He has visited Japan about 70 times. Ruzimatov has mesmerized countless audiences. His stage performances transcend mere entertainment and are etched into the memories of many fans' lives.

'Don Quixote' 2011 Japan Tour 'La Bayadere' 2010 Japan Tour Photo: Hidemi Seto © K