From October 1 to October 30, 2024, Nigyar Shakhmuradova, a third-year doctoral student of the 8D02108 “Choreography” educational program, completed an international research internship at the Baku Academy of Choreography under the academic supervision of Associate Professor Lyudmila Gasanova, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences and Professor of the Department.

The topic of Nigyar Shakhmuradova’s dissertation is “The Synthesis of National and Classical Dance in the Context of the Development of Azerbaijani Choreographic Art (mid-20th–21st centuries).” During the internship, she conducted meetings and interviews with veterans and leading ballet artists of the Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, as well as soloists of the State Ensemble and the State Song and Dance Ensemble of Azerbaijan. These encounters provided unique material for her doctoral dissertation and deepened her understanding of the history and evolution of the country’s choreographic art.

Particular attention was given to her participation in masterclasses led by Ksenia Khomutova, a teacher at the Ural Choreographic College. Classes in classical dance, contemporary dance, and ballet gymnastics became an important experience for expanding her methodological knowledge and practical skills. During these sessions, she became acquainted with the instructor’s original teaching approaches, the integration of classical technique with elements of contemporary choreography, and methods for developing dancers’ physical conditioning.

The international academic advisor of the doctoral student was Mina Telmankyzy Gajiyeva, Doctor of Philosophy in Art Studies and Professor at Baku State University of Azerbaijan, providing strong academic guidance and professional support throughout the internship.

The international internship of Nigyar Shakhmuradova became a significant step in the development of her research and professional growth, as well as in strengthening international cooperation in the field of choreographic art.