Bruno Priede

1917
Ballet dancer, choreographer

Born 28 December 1917 in Rīga. Acquired his first ballet skills at the M. Štāla ballet studio and at the Ballet School of the State Opera and Ballet Theatre (1944–1950).

Later graduated from the Anatoly Lunacharsky State Institute for Theatre Arts in Moscow (1955) and continued with post-graduate studies (1956–1958). Mastered Latvian dance under the guidance of J. Stumbra, E. Siliņa and Milda Lasmane. Also worked with the Latvian State University dance group (1947–1950).

q In 1955, took on the duties of ballet master of the Latvian State Philharmonic’s song and dance ensemble, and a year later – that of assistant ballet master at the VIth World Young People’s and Student Festival. In 1956, moved to Moscow and worked as director of the Moscow Ice Ballet (from 1958).

Together with M. Lasmane, was a chief choreographer at the first three Dance Celebrations and laid the foundations for the tradition of major-scale grand performances. Priede’s dances Ačkups and Dancot gāju ar meitām (I Danced with Girls) are still performed at Dance Celebrations.

A Chief choreographer at the 1st-3rd Dance Celebrations.