Arts Alive San Antonio

You recently hired two outstanding ballet stars, Nurlan Kimerbayev and Alexandra– Sasha – Krukova.
How did you discover them?

In August, Alamo City Arts experienced a leadership transition when our former Ballet Masters, Jay and
Jessica Markov, were presented with the opportunity to purchase and lead Yerba Linda Ballet. We were happy for them and fully supported their next chapter. Their departure created an immediate opening. We posted the Ballet Master position the following day, and within four hours Sasha and Nurlan reached out. The timing felt remarkable, but what mattered more was how closely their experience aligned with where we were heading as an organization.

Are they husband and wife?
Sasha and Nurlan are married and are also long-standing professional dance partners. Their relationship began onstage. At the time, Nurlan was performing with the Russian National Ballet when Sasha joined the company. In their first production together, they were cast as principals in “Giselle.” From that very first performance, there was an immediate artistic connection that quickly became personal. They began dating soon after and have continued to build their careers side by side. Today, that shared history is still very much present. Years of dancing together have created a deep level of trust and communication. And the chemistry they discovered early on, remains evident on stage and in the studio.

Tell us more. Where are they from and where have they danced and what has been said about their performances?

Sasha was born in Belarus and trained at the Minsk Ballet Academy. She later danced as a principal with the Minsk State Theater of Opera and Ballet in Almaty, the Russian National Ballet and Manassas Ballet Theater in Virginia, performing leading roles from the classical repertoire. Nurlan was born in Kazakhstan and trained at the Almaty Choreographic College. His career includes principal roles with the State Academic Opera and Ballet, the Russian National Ballet, and other companies.

Nurlan was born in Kazakhstan and trained at the Almaty Choreographic College. His career includes principal roles with the State Academic Opera and Ballet in Almaty. Both are known for strong classical techique, musicality and dramatic clarity.

Have they received awards and special recognition?
Nurlan is a laureate of international ballet competitions. Both Sasha and Nurlan have also served as adjudicators and master teachers for Ballet Championships of America.

Do they speak English?
Yes, both speak English and have worked extensively in the U.S. as performers, instructors and choreographers.

Are they becoming permanent members of Alamo City Arts? How will they influence the organization?

Yes, Sasha and Nurlan are joining Alamo City Arts as permanent artistic leaders. Their presence represents a long-term investment in stability and artistic growth. For those interested in training with them, they are also teaching classes through Alamo city Arts. Information about class offerings and enrollment is available on the website of Alamo City Arts.

Both artists will perform in the upcoming ballet version of “A Mid-Summer Night’s Dream” on My 2, 2026 at the Thiry Auditorium at Our Lady of the Lake University, 411 SW 24th St.; 78207. The music will be provided by the Symphony VIVA, also part of Alamo City Arts. (tickets are $20-$45) For more info call 210-369-8311.
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