On April 3–4, 2026, the Kazakh National Academy of Choreography hosted master classes on the Bournonville style, led by world-renowned experts Dinna Bjorn and Eric Viudes from Denmark.

The event took place as part of an international cultural project and was aimed at developing the professional skills of the Academy’s students and introducing them to authentic European ballet traditions.

Dinna Bjorn is one of the world’s leading authorities on the legacy of August Bournonville and a prominent figure in the Danish ballet tradition. Former director of the Norwegian National Ballet (Oslo) and the Finnish National Ballet (Helsinki), she serves on the jury of prestigious international ballet competitions. For her outstanding contribution to the development of international ballet, she has been awarded the highest royal orders of Denmark, Norway, and Finland.

Eric Viudes is a French choreographer and a recognized guardian of the European classical tradition. He is one of the last private students of Maître Yves Brieux and continues the unique lineage of the French school. He is an outstanding international expert on the legacy of August Bournonville and a world-class teacher. He has been recognized by the French Ministry of Culture for his exceptional artistic achievements. He is a co-founder and director of The Bournonville Society (Amsterdam) and a resident choreographer at the European School of Ballet.

The master classes provided the Academy’s students with a unique opportunity to explore the technical and artistic aesthetics of the Bournonville style—one of the most significant schools of European classical ballet. The master class are organized by the Nomad Ballet Project.

For more information, please contact the Department of International Cooperation and Public Relations at 87172790855