Bolshoi Theater fires ballerina Anastasia Volochkova

Bolshoi Theater General Director Anatoly Iksanov signed an order firing soloist ballerina Anastasia Volochkova yesterday. The theater's press service told Rosbalt the reason behind the firing was Volochkova's refusal to extend her work contract until December 31, 2003 and 'a number of requirements by Volochkova, which contradict the interests of the theater's ballet troupe.'

Iksanov said that Volochkova 'is not the leader of the ballet collective and not the face of ballet at the Bolshoi Theater which is most necessary in the important ballet tours to Paris and London.' Moreover, the question of her partner has not been decided since her former partner Yevgeny Ivanchenko left the theatre several months ago due to health reasons. Volochkova told television station NTV that she may attempt to defend her rights in court.