Serge Lifar's Rare Artifacts on Display in Kyiv: Exhibition Closes January 25

Exhibition: 'Serge Lifar. My Odyssey from Kyiv to Kyiv'

According to Главком: A unique exhibition showcasing rare artifacts linked to the celebrated Ukrainian ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher, Serge Lifar, is currently open at the Museum of Kyiv History. This is a final opportunity to view these items before they are returned to museum archives and permanent storage on January 25.

Serge Lifar is considered one of the 20th century's most influential ballet figures, having shaped the art form as a premier dancer and ballet master of the Paris Opera. The exhibition features several one-of-a-kind pieces, including:

• The 'Golden Ballet Slipper' international award, presented to Lifar in 1955 to mark his 25th anniversary of creative work at the Paris Opera. This item is held in the collections of the National Museum of History of Ukraine.
• The state honor 'National Legend of Ukraine', awarded posthumously to Serge Lifar by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in 2025. It is now held in the collection of the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Dance named after Serge Lifar.

This display commemorates the 120th anniversary of Lifar's birth. A guided tour led by the project curator, Natalia Bilous, will take place on January 25 at 2:00 PM. Bilous is the head of the Museum of Kyiv History's branch, the 'Serge Lifar Museum', and a dedicated researcher of his work.

“The presence of these awards from different nations is profoundly symbolic. It continues the life and creative odyssey of this distinguished Kyivan, who conquered the world yet always dreamed of returning to his native city. Ukraine formed Serge Lifar's character, while France polished his talent and brought him global acclaim.”

Viktoriya Mukha, General Director of the Museum of Kyiv History

The exhibition 'Serge Lifar. My Odyssey from Kyiv to Kyiv' is located at the Museum of Kyiv History's Exhibition Center at 7 Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Street. Do not miss the chance to see these unique artifacts before January 25.

The Exhibition's Significance

'Serge Lifar. My Odyssey from Kyiv to Kyiv' is a significant cultural event that highlights Lifar's immense contribution to dance, both in Ukraine and internationally. It offers visitors a deep dive into the history of an artist who achieved worldwide fame but whose heart remained with his homeland. Such initiatives are vital for preserving cultural heritage and promoting Ukrainian history through the lens of its most remarkable figures.