In the history of Russian theater, there have been many significant moments, but the legendary Marius Petipa holds a special place in the development of ballet and teaching. This outstanding individual was born in France and, unlike other emigrants from Western Europe, had no connections to Russia. He grew up in a creative family, performed as a dancer, and toured various countries, as well as making a career as a choreographer in his homeland. It is unlikely that Marius ever imagined himself as a Russian subject, but in 1847 he received an invitation to perform on the stages of St. Petersburg. At that time, the prestige of the Russian Empire was high, and Petipa quickly agreed.

The first performance of the French dancer and choreographer in Russia took place on the stage of the Bolshoi (Stone) Theater, after which he began his first experiments as a choreographer in Russia. He was struck by the skill of Russian dancers and ballerinas, their pursuit of complex elements, and the public's love for ballet. Instead of a brief tour in Russia, Marius unexpectedly wanted to stay in this still unfamiliar country. Thus began his creative journey in Russia, where he soon became the chief choreographer of the Bolshoi Theater in St. Petersburg and worked in this position for over thirty years. In 1894, he received Russian citizenship and remained in the country forever.

Marius lived in Russia for almost 65 years, left behind more than a hundred works, and was awarded eight state honors, including three orders. Petipa passed away in 1910 at the age of 92. He was buried at the Lutheran Volkovskoe Cemetery, but during the Soviet era, many graves were destroyed, and the remains with the monument of the great choreographer were moved to the Tikhvin Cemetery. Today, his name is borne by one of the squares in St. Petersburg, and his image has appeared on postage stamps and a two-ruble coin.