“Millions of people across the world celebrate and embrace Russian culture, through ballet, sport and the gifts left by our great artisans of the past. Yet Russia is carving out a new, modern identity. A young and dynamic generation are emerging and spreading the message of the new Russia around the globe. If successful, Sochi's bid to host the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games would create the perfect showcase of positive change and also the catalyst for a legacy that’s effects will be felt by the people of Russia long after the Games have gone.“

Nikolai Tsiskaridze is the Principal Dancer of the world famous Bolshoi Ballet. His performances have delighted audiences around the globe and made him the most decorated dancer in Russia.

In 1987, Tsiskaridze joined the Moscow Ballet School at the age of 14 and was admitted into the Bolshoi Ballet in 1991. After winning the praise of ballet legends, including Galina Ulanova, Marina Semenova and Yuri Grigorovich, he became the youngest person to be named a People's Artist of Russia in 2001.

Tsiskaridze received the State Prize of the Russian Federation in 2001 and 2003, the Russian Golden Mask theatrical prize in 1998 and 2000, and the Benois de la Dance in 1999.

Tsiskaridze was born in Tblisi, Georgia.

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