At the premiere of Generation Dance, the prestigious Alexandra Radius Prize 2024 was awarded to principal dancer Olga Smirnova. The award was presented by Alexandra Radius herself, a former principal dancer with the Dutch National Ballet. The Alexandra Radius Prize, an initiative of the Friends of Dutch National Ballet foundation, is awarded annually to the Dutch National Ballet dancer who has distinguished themselves most remarkably in the previous dance season. The prize includes a sum of €4000 and an artwork by Humphrey Bennet. This year marks the 34th awarding of the Alexandra Radius Prize.
Jury Report
The jury selected Olga Smirnova for her exceptional performances in both classical and contemporary ballets, as well as her extraordinary courage. The jury stated, “We chose a female dancer who has not only distinguished herself in an exceptional, often poignant way, but whose extraordinary courage we also want to acknowledge with the Alexandra Radius Prize.” They further noted, “We view Smirnova as a valuable asset to dance in the Netherlands. Her enormous dedication, drive, and interest in new dance forms make her a role model for all dancers in the Netherlands and beyond.”
This year’s jury included Alexandra Radius, Alexander Zhembrovskyy (former principal with Dutch National Ballet and owner of a dance and fitness studio), Astrid van Leeuwen (dance journalist and publicist), Frederik Redelé (board member of the Dutch National Opera & Ballet Fund), Bram Posma (Friend of Dutch National Ballet), and Rutger Steens (Young Patron of Dutch National Ballet).
Olga Smirnova’s Response
Olga Smirnova expressed her gratitude, saying, “What a great honour it is for me to receive the Alexandra Radius Prize! I have always been a huge admirer of Alexandra’s legendary talent. It is always special to see her and her husband Han after my performances and hear their invaluable opinions. Alexandra’s praise means a lot to me, and so does this vote of confidence from her and the other jury members: Alexander Zhembrovskyy, Astrid van Leeuwen, Frederik Redelé, Bram Posma, and Rutger Steens. I am deeply grateful to all of them!”
About Olga Smirnova
Olga Smirnova, originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, joined the Dutch National Ballet as a principal dancer in 2022. She left her homeland and her star position at the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
