Today we’d like to introduce you to Val Salnikov.
Hi Val, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in Russia. I learned Ballet from Gennady Albert, who is a classmate of Mikhail Baryshnikov. I traveled with touring company throughout the world. Served in the military.
Continued my career at Kirov Ballet. Performed a number of unique shows in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Germany, Japan, Finland, Chech Republic, Japan, Italy, Spain, Georgia.
Interesting fact: As a part of the contract, while I lived in St.-Petersburg, Russia, mysteriously, I was provided with an apartment, where Mr. Balanchine was living in the 1920s. It was the last place he lived at before he came to the United States.
In 1994, I came for the first time to the US, and fell in love with this country at first sight. With the recommendation of Mikhail Baryshnikov, I became a citizen of the USA in 2007. The same year was called a National Treasure, by a local newspaper in the state of Mississippi.
I have performed at every State in collaboration with well-known masters as Winton Marsalis, Mstislav Rostropovich, Stanislav Issaev, Julie Kent, and produced many shows. I was inspired by meeting John Whithead (Columbia Music Festival Association), Virginia Uldrick (SC Governor’s School of Arts and Humanities), David Howard, etc.
Besides my performing career, I have found a passion for teaching in my soul. I feel that, it’s my mission to enlight lives of people of all ages by introducing them to the Dance.
I’m very proud of the fact that well-known Ballet stars like Joseph Phillips, Sara Mearns, Bo Busby, Whitney Huell attended my classes.
Here, in SC, I’m fortunate to have my dance school at the Younts Center for Performing Arts in Fountain Inn,SC. Here in South Carolina, I have met the love of my life Lana Kaym, who supports me at every project I do. Right now I’m working on the unique interpretation of the famous ballet Nutcracker, which scheduled for December 17, 18 2022. This Christmas traditiinal show serves the large community in the area between the southern part of Greenville County and northern part of Columbia, SC.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When I first came to the US, it supposed to be one month of performing. I was amazed by the country, but I didn’t see an opportunity to stay here. Life is unpredictable and I like it. Looking back, I think only being a young man, you can take a risk of coming to a new country with 89 cents in your pocket. Without going deep in details, I can say, there definitely more good people in this world than bad ones.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My passion is the history of theater. I enjoy reproducing forgotten classical ballet performances. I’m happy to see people inspired by my ideas and what I’m doing.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Do not listen to those who discourage you.
Pricing:
- Tickets for the Nutcracker: $15, 20,25
- Dance classes: starting from $75/month
- Adult Ballet: $20/ class
- Unique knitted ballerina dolls: $35/doll
Contact Info:
- Instagram: thestagedanceschool
- Facebook: The Stage
Image Credits
Lana Kaym
