The message reads, in part:
“With your inspired creative work, you have inscribed bright, unforgettable pages in the creative chronicle of the Bolshoi Theatre. You made a truly unique contribution to the preservation and development of the legendary traditions of the great Russian ballet. An outstanding performer of classical and modern repertoire parts, a talented choreographer, ballet master and director – it is difficult to list all the facets of your talent, and everywhere you have achieved great, well-deserved success and recognition.”
Vladimir Vasilyev is National Artist of the USSR, recipient of the Lenin Komsomol Prize, the Lenin Prize and national awards of the USSR and the Russian Federation. He is a holder of the orders of Lenin, Peoples’ Friendship, the Red Banner of Labour, and Order for Services to the Fatherland, III and IV degree. He was also awarded the UNESCO Pablo Picasso Medal, state orders of Italy, Japan, Lithuania, Brazil, France and many other international prizes and awards.