The first grand master of the Russian ballet was Marius Petipa. He played a significant role in establishing the structure and aesthetics of ballet in Russia during the 19th century. Petipa is best known for choreographing classic works including Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. His innovative choreography and attention to theatrical storytelling elevated ballet to new heights, influencing generations of dancers and choreographers. Petipa’s legacy continues to be a cornerstone of traditional ballet training and performance.