Russians pay last respects to ballet maestro Grigorovich

Russians paid their last respects to dance legend Yuri Grigorovich on Friday at the Bolshoi Theatre where he reigned for decades as artistic director of one of the world's most famous ballet companies.

Grigorovich, considered one of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century, died on Monday at the age of 98.

Leading figures from the Russian arts world gathered inside the gilded auditorium of the Bolshoi to pay tribute to him. Grigorovich's coffin was placed in front of the stage, where a giant photograph of the puckish, white-haired ballet master was displayed.

Hundreds of Muscovites, many carrying flowers, were waiting outside the theatre in central Moscow. They applauded as his casket was carried down the steps, accompanied by a portrait of Grigorovich and three huge floral wreaths.

"I really loved him. He was a genius... so I could not miss this farewell," said pensioner Alexandra Tretyakova.

Grigorovich was famed for productions of Spartacus, Ivan the Terrible, Romeo and Juliet and many other ballets that were staged in Russia and around the world. He was especially noted for male roles requiring extraordinary strength and technique.

Ballerina Lyubov Filippova told Reuters that the late choreographer was a "colossus" and an idol.

"This person will always remain with us, in our hearts, in our lives. And we should continue to learn from his ballets," she said.