For me, purity of movement wasn't enough. I needed expression, more intensity, more mind.

- Rudolf Nureyev

As long as my ballets are danced, I will live.

- Rudolf Nureyev

The only critic is a full house.

- Rudolf Nureyev

Of course I have a personal life.

- Rudolf Nureyev

Technique is what you fall back on when you run out of inspiration.

- Rudolf Nureyev

I’m really alive when I’m on stage.

- Rudolf Nureyev

A pas de deux is a dialogue of love. How can there be conversation if one partner is dumb?

- Rudolf Nureyev

When I miss class for one day, I know it. When I miss class for two days, my teacher knows it. When I miss class for three days, the audience knows i…

- Rudolf Nureyev

I approach dancing from a different angle than those who begin dancing at 8 or 9. Those who have studied from the beginning never question anything.

- Rudolf Nureyev