My relationship with Olga Esina is a very special one. Since the day we met, we showed not only a strong sympathy to each other but positively the deepest respect. We met 15 or 16 years ago. With the passing of the years, we became friends. But not for a second did we forget that she is a prima ballerina and I am a ballet critic.

Last May she gave me an incredible honour. While at the Première Party for „Let me mingle tears with thee“, she introduced me to the wonderfully talented, very special and down-to-earth choreographer Jessica Lang. Her first words to her were “This is Ricardo. A ballet critic. I want you to meet him. He knows what he is writing about; he knows a lot about dance”. Needless to say that I felt 3 1/2 meters tall!

I would like to add here that not only a strong friendship connects us (my husband and I) to her and her whole family, but that last year she also gave me the honour of being my maid of honour (Witness to my Marriage). I still remember our joy in having you present during this most important (and very intimate) moment of our lives. Thank you!

Of course, one always knows that someday a dancer’s career comes to an End. It is a fact of life. Nevertheless, one does not want to think about it. When I first heard the news, I felt sad. But I wish dear Olga and Kirill and both children all the luck in the world. But I, for sure, will miss you a lot on stage.

Thank you for all the “presents” you gave us with your Art, Elegance and Sensibility! God bless!

Ricardo Leitner

a t t i t u d e

Vienna , October 31st, 2026