David Hallberg Awarded the “Benois de la Danse” Prize

American Ballet Theatre has just announced that David Hallberg was awarded the 2010 “Benois de la Danse” prize for his performance of Albrecht in “Giselle.” Previous winners include Ángel Corella, Carlos Acosta, Manuel Legris, Marcelo Gomes, and Vladimir Malakhov. A press release reads:

American Ballet Theatre Principal Dancer David Hallberg has taken the 2010 Benois de la Danse Prize. The awards were announced at the Benois de la Danse ceremony and Charity Gala held on May 18 and 19 at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.

Hallberg was recognized as best male dancer for his portrayal of Count Albrecht in Giselle, in which he debuted during American Ballet Theatre’s engagement at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, in February 2009.

The Benois de la Danse Prize was established in 1992 by the International Dance Association (now the International Dance Union) and UNESCO. The annual prize recognizes the achievements of the most outstanding choreographer, female dancer and male dancer of the previous year. Nominees and awardees are selected by an international jury of dance luminaries including company directors, teachers and well-known artists in the world of ballet.