Minnesota Dance Theatre & The Dance Institute Celebrate The Commitment Of School Principal, Lirena Branitski

Minnesota Dance Theatre & the Dance Institute (MDT/DI) celebrate School Principal Lirena Branitski and her commitment to MDT/DI as they prepare for the upcoming school year with new School Director Jeffrey Hankinson.
 
Ms. Branitski moved to the Twin Cities in the early 1980's and began teaching throughout the area, including over 20 years at Ballet Arts Minnesota.  In 2006 when the School of Minnesota Dance Theatre and Ballet Arts Minnesota merged to form the Dance Institute, Ms. Branitski was appointed School Principal. Ms. Branitski has been an invaluable asset to the organization as she brings a direct link to the true Russian classical ballet technique, repertoire and character classes.
 
"Watching Lirena teach class is observing a progressive and enduring mix...where the best of classical ballet tradition meets the expectations of an evolving art form. 
 
Lirena's watchful eye, compassion for the aspiring dancer and precision in class content is, in and of itself, an art form. We are so very fortunate to have her consistent, persistent talent in this community. Through her distinguished mentorship and dedication she has guided students to major companies throughout the world. It is a great privilege to work alongside her." - Lise Houlton, MDT/DI Artistic Director

Born in Ukraine, Ms. Branitski was first soloist of the Kiev State Theatre of Opera and Ballet and frequent guest dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet, performing on stages throughout Europe, Canada and South America. She has performed under all the master Russian choreographers, including the world-renowned Peter Gusev, Vakhtang Tchabukiani, Raisa Struchkova and Alexander Lapauri.
 
"I love what I am doing and I love to see the results of their hard work. As School Principal I am here to make sure the students are headed in the right direction." - Lirena Branitski, MDT/DI School Principal
 
For more information on Minnesota Dance Theatre & the Dance Institute visit www.mndance.org or call 612-338-0627.

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