From Anna Pavlova (the incredible Russian ballerina whom the Pavlova dessert is named after!) to Misty Copeland, many incredible ballerinas have graced the stage across time. These two may be names familiar to most, but within the ballet world, many other astonishing ballet dancers deserve just as much recognition. As a ballet dancer myself, these are dancers who have truly inspired me. Many of the dancers on this list are popular among the ballet community, and I believe their renown should extend beyond the ballet world, because they deserve every bit of it.

Natalia Osipova

Natalia Osipova is a Russian ballerina who is currently a principal dancer with the Royal Ballet, previously dancing at the Bolshoi Ballet and the Mikhailovsky Ballet. She perfectly blends technique and artistry and has the remarkable ability to infuse her movements with emotion. While delivering an emotionally captivating performance, Natalia Osipova continually performs to the highest technical ability.

Looking at her performance of The Dying Swan in the above video, there is just so much drama, intensity, and character. She is the swan.

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Marianela Núñez

Marianela Núñez is another principal dancer with the Royal Ballet from Argentina. Her technique is absolutely exquisite, and her musicality is beautiful as well. Many of the other dancers on this list I admire for their artistry, especially.

While Núñez's artistry is also remarkable, her technique is what really sets her apart. Each of her movements is poised and controlled, from her back to her toes and the very tips of her fingers—just look at her depiction of the Rose Adage below!

Olesya Novikova

Olesya Novikova is a Russian ballerina who is currently a principal with the Mariinsky Theatre. Novikova's musicality is the best of the best. What I admire the most about her is how her dancing and the music are not separate, and instead work together to create a unified performance.

Her movements make the music come alive. Her technique leaves nothing to be desired—her feet and fingers are especially well-articulated. Honestly, just looking at her legs feels like watching a performance in itself!

Isabella Boylston

Isabella Boylston is currently a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Her lower body strength is particularly striking, allowing her to perform difficult jumps. Watching her performances, it truly seems as if she hangs in the air while still staying connected to her music.

Her facial expressions are also immaculate—they are evident even in the few pixels of the video below. Truly incredible!

Madeline Woo

Madeline Woo is a principal dancer with the Royal Swedish Ballet, originally from Southern California. Her jumps, both petit and grand allegro, are incredible: simultaneously powerful and seemingly effortless. Her graceful and intricate lines also catch my attention every time I see her dance.

Beyond being an amazingly talented ballerina, what sets Madeline apart is that she redefines the rigid limits of ballet. Her clothing brand she is currently working on, Madd Woo Studios, demonstrates this, breaking away from the traditional pink ballet tights and leotard standard of ballet attire.

Crystal Huang

At only 16, Crystal Huang has accomplished a great deal at her age and made quite a name for herself already. She most recently placed second at the 2024 YAGP finals. That same year, she also won a scholarship to the ABT Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School, where she trains currently, and a contemporary dance award in the Prix de Lausanne.

Crystal is one of the most versatile dancers I know—she is well-versed in a variety of styles, and is also an incredible choreographer. Crystal is truly an inspiration for young dancers. Her hard work and dedication serve, too, as inspiration for any teenager who wants to get good at what they do, beyond dance.

Hanxi Wang

At just 17, Hanxi might just be one of my favorite up-and-coming dancers, dancing at the Shanghai Dance School. Her incredible ability to become her character, whether she is dancing as Raymonda or Aurora. Moreover, she gives so much care to each of her movements; her transitions flow gorgeously and purposefully, never stopping.

This year, she won first in the YAGP finals, as well as an apprenticeship with the Bayerisches Junior Ballett in the Prix de Lausanne. Her Raymonda variation is below—see how her movements take you into her world.

Conclusion

I hope this comprehensive list has introduced you to some of your newest favorite dancers. Personally, I am grateful for the opportunity to spend time with these phenomenal dancers in putting together this article. Take the time to watch and appreciate each of the performance videos—you will thank me later!