Iana Salenko
Principal Guest Dancer - Staatsballet Berlin
Iana Salenko is an internationally acclaimed principal ballet dancer, renowned for her extraordinary technique, captivating stage presence, and profound artistic expression. A graduate of the prestigious Kyiv State Choreographic School, Iana's professional career spans some of the world’s most renowned ballet companies, with her exceptional artistry setting her apart on both classical and contemporary stages

Iana's career began at the Ukrainian National Opera in Kyiv, where she quickly gained attention for her talent and was appointed principal dancer. In 2007, she joined the Berlin State Ballet (Berliner Staatsballett), where she further honed her craft and became a celebrated star of the company. Over the years, Iana has performed lead roles in numerous classic ballets, including Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Don Quixote, La Bayadère, and Giselle, to name just a few. Her remarkable portrayal of iconic roles, such as Odette/Odile in Swan Lake and Aurora in Sleeping Beauty, has earned her widespread admiration for both her technical prowess and emotional depth on stage
As one of the leading dancers of her generation, Iana has collaborated with some of the most distinguished choreographers and dancers in the world. Her repertoire extends beyond classical works, and she has performed in contemporary ballets, showcasing her versatility and ability to adapt to a wide range of styles
In addition to her performance career, Iana is deeply committed to sharing her knowledge and experience with the next generation of dancers. She is passionate about teaching and mentoring, which has led her to conduct masterclasses and workshops globally. Iana will be joining the BalletStage Summer Intensive Masterclass in Ljubljana, Slovenia, as a ballet master, where she will work with talented dancers and offer guidance, mentorship, and insight into the world of professional ballet
Iana’s dedication to ballet and the arts has made her a respected figure not only in the dance community but also in broader cultural circles. Her continued excellence on stage, coupled with her contribution to the development of ballet through teaching and mentorship, ensures her place as one of the most influential and admired figures in the world of dance today