Latvian National Ballet’s Artistic Director Aivars Leimanis to Receive Ministry of Culture Appreciation

The Latvian government has decided to award Aivars Leimanis, the artistic director of Latvia’s National Ballet, with a Letter of Appreciation from the Ministry of Culture (MK). The decision was made at a government meeting on March 17, 2026, following a proposal from the Awards Council of the Cabinet of Ministers and the Ministry of Culture.

Recognizing a Legacy in Latvian Ballet

Aivars Leimanis will receive the Letter of Appreciation in recognition of his “excellent performance and long-term contribution to the art of Latvian ballet.” Minister of Culture Agnese Lāce will present the award in a formal ceremony.

About the Letter of Appreciation

The Letter of Appreciation of the MK is a government award presented to individuals, including foreigners, for outstanding achievements in various fields, including culture, science and sports. It was established in April 1995. Agnese Lāce, the current Minister of Culture, will oversee the presentation of the award.

Aivars Leimanis: A Career in Dance and Leadership

Aivars Leimanis began his career as a ballet dancer, becoming a soloist with the Latvian National Opera’s Ballet Company. He has performed leading roles in classic ballets such as “The Nutcracker,” “Giselle,” “Don Quixote,” and “The Sleeping Beauty.” He later transitioned into artistic direction, leading the Latvian National Opera Ballet Company. He has choreographed and staged numerous ballets, including “Le Corsaire” and “Swan Lake.”

Leimanis received the Helēnas Tangijevas – Birznieces Award in 2008 for outstanding achievements in ballet and the Players’ Night Award in 1999 for his choreography of “Coppélia.” In 2003, he was awarded the Latvian Three-Star Order.

The Nomination Process

Proposals for the Letter of Appreciation are submitted by the Prime Minister, ministers, heads of municipalities, the chairman of the Latvian Association of Municipalities, or heads of other non-governmental organizations.