Her decision lends another voice to the Russians who are denouncing Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine.
Like many Russians, Smirnova has family ties to Ukraine.
Her grandfather is Ukrainian and she describes herself as one-quarter Ukrainian.
Photo courtesy of the Dutch National Ballet
In a statementrepublishedby the Dutch National Ballet, she made her feelings clear.
In a modern and enlightened world, I expect civilized societies to resolve political matters only through peaceful negotiations.
But now I feel that a line has been drawn that separates the before and the after.
And who would have thought a few weeks ago that all of this would happen?
Individuals found guilty of breaking the law could face up to 15 years in prison.
Cultural institutions around the world are cutting ties with Russian artists and institutions that do not denounce the war.
This includes Brazilian soloist David Motta Soares and Italian principal dancer Jacopo Tissi.
For now, those waiting to see Smirnova in action won’t have to wait long.
She’ll make her debut with the Dutch National Ballet in its production ofRaymondain early April.
