British critics voted for the Mariinsky Theatre soloist in the category "Outstanding Male Performance".
Xander Parish enchanted British professional critics writing about ballet and dance with his performance of the role of Apollo in the eponymous ballet by George Balanchine during the Mariinsky Theatre’s tour to London in August. Trained at the Royal Ballet School in Great Britain, Xander Parish became the first ever British dancer to join the Mariinsky Ballet. Over the five years he has lived and worked in St Petersburg, the dancer has performed numerous roles – in both classical ballets and in 20th century productions. The young performer’s artistic potential has already brought him numerous prizes, now joined by the prestigious British Critics’ Circle award.