Published: July 2026
Author: San Francisco Ballet School
With a focus on Nureyev’s production of La Bayadère, students had the privilege of working with Karin Averty and Pierre Villanova, former principal dancers from San Francisco Ballet and former dancers with the Paris Opéra Ballet, where they worked under the directorship of Rudolf Nureyev.
Honouring a Legend with the Next Generation
San Francisco Ballet School (SFBS) is delighted to be part of the Rudolf Nureyev Foundation Schools’ Partnership Programme. This three year project introduces students to the impact and legacy of Rudolf Nureyev, both locally and around the world.
In the first year, SFBS students were introduced to Nureyev’s production of La Bayadère in an intensive week of immersive study. Karin Averty and Pierre Vilanoba coached students in variations from the ballet, while ballet historian Mary Wood led seminars and hosted a panel discussion with Karin and Pierre.
Students also had the opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of Nureyev’s historical contributions by observing and discussing documentaries and films of Nureyev and of the Paris Opera Ballet performing La Bayadère.
The students’ work was presented in an open coaching session for an audience of SFBS supporters and an in-studio showing attended by faculty and families.
Find out more about the Nureyev Project at SFBS on the San Francisco Ballet School blog.
