Biography
My father supported me. He knew that ballet could open doors—a way to see the world, and something we could not afford otherwise.
Semyon’s Childhood
1989 –
Born in Novosibirsk, Russia, Semyon’s remarkable path in dance began at age eight, when he discovered the joy of folk dance. For Semyon, who had tragically lost his mother to severe illness just a year prior, dancing offered a much-needed escape and a place to thrive. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly, spending countless hours learning new techniques alongside his friends. At a performance at age nine, Semyon’s talent was spotted by teachers from the State Choreographic College. His audition was successful, setting him on course to become a professional dancer.
“It was an amazing opportunity for me—a chance to dance in Moscow, to work with incredible choreographers and dancers.”
Early Career
2008 –
In 2008, Semyon successfully secured a soloist contract with the Novosibirsk Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, led by the renowned Igor Zelensky. His talent quickly shone through; within his debut year, Semyon was elevated to principal dancer, taking on roles such as the Bronze Idol in La Bayadère and Albrecht in Giselle. In 2011, he followed Zelensky to The Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Moscow Academic Music Theatre, where he excelled in classical and contemporary main roles by Jiří Kylián, Pierre Lacotte, Natalia Makarova and many more. Simultaneously, Semyon earned a teacher/ballet master diploma from the Russian Institute of Theatre Arts and a financial management degree from Moscow University.
“When I got the offer, it felt surreal—a dream came true. It was a huge step; leaving my country and my family—but also the most exciting one.”
New Chapter in Amsterdam
2015 –
The move to Moscow brought Semyon closer to his aspiration of dancing in Western Europe. After four years in the Russian capital, he sought to broaden his artistic horizons by working with new choreographers and exploring different dance styles. In 2015, Semyon joined The Dutch National Ballet as a soloist. Upon his arrival in Amsterdam, he thrived in an environment, rich with incredible artists, new choreography and the vibrant city. He cherishes the opportunity to have worked with so many choreographers, such as Hans van Manen, Rudi van Dantzig and Juanjo Arqués, whose work shaped him as an artist. Classical roles with the company also hold a special place for Semyon. Since 2020, he has been principal with the Dutch National Ballet.
“But the most beautiful surprise came in my personal life. In Amsterdam, I met Nancy, also a ballerina at HNB—the love of my life.”
New Home
2015 –
In Amsterdam, Semyon met his wife, Nancy Burer, a fellow dancer at The Dutch National Ballet. From the start, Nancy became his unwavering support, his “home away from home.” Together, Semyon and Nancy are now parents to Mila, a two-year-old daughter brimming with energy and joy, who has become the light of their lives. Semyon happily notes that fatherhood has given deeper meaning to all his endeavors. On the professional front, his compelling performances frequently captivate audiences at international galas around the world. He relishes sharing the stage with incredible dancers, connecting across cultures and finding inspiration in every performance.