Maximova & Vasiliev at the Bolshoi

the long version

"This is the first study of the extraordinary partnership of Maximova and Vasiliev. Both are very private people, rarely giving interviews, and scorning self-promotion; yet their fame as a legendary dance partnership is so great that they are known throughout the world." "Roberta Lazzarini first saw them dance during the Bolshoi's 1963 season at Covent Garden, and has followed their careers ever since. Maximova and Vasiliev co-operated fully with her on the creation of this book, placing many rare documents and photographs at her disposal." "This book was not conceived as a biography - although biographical details are given - but as an impression of the dancers and their art, an integrated structure of words and pictures. It covers their entire working life, from the time they first met at the Bolshoi Ballet School in 1949 to the present, concentrating on their most famous roles both in rehearsal and in performance." "The author has had many conversations with the dancers and their close colleagues, and she has selected 160 photographs from her collection of over 5000. These have been chosen not only for their superb quality and impact, but also for their ability to convey some of the dedication, stamina and discipline as well as the sheer brilliance of Maximova and Vasiliev."--BOOK JACKET.