While doing research, I came across an article published in the late 70s in the New York Daily News titled “Gelsey and Misha toe to toe.” According to the writers, Baryshnikov and Gelsey Kirkland were rivals–I had no idea! I was intrigued by their feud. An excerpt from the article recounted an on-stage incident during “Giselle”…
During the second act pas de deux, Kirkland, whether by accident or design, gave Baryshnikov a swift kick to the rear–a gesture that was noted with obvious glee by the audience.
The reporter writes later that during the curtain calls, Kirkland was given her flowers and she offered a rose to Baryshnikov. When he reached to take it, she tossed it into the audience and ran off stage!
3 responses so far ↓
Philip // January 29, 2008 at 12:48 pm
Be sure to read Gelsey’s book, DANCING ON MY GRAVE which details the tempestuous romantic and professional relationship between her & Baryshnikov; I’ll gladly loan you my copy!
writingariel // January 29, 2008 at 4:44 pm
Wow, that’s so interesting that she even mentioned the rivalry in her book some people keep out all the juicy stuff!
Philip // January 30, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Oh, Kirkland’s book is juicy! It caused quite a furore when it was published because she spills the dirt on several of the dance world’s luminaries.
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