After multiple feats in theatre, the artist has ventured into dancewear—expanding the codes of ballet beyond traditional conventions.
IN A world where sociopolitical downturns hit the spheres of culture at an increasingly ferocious pace, moments of respite tend to be few and far between. Art, however—and all the sensibilities it harmonises—is an element that’s able to articulate – be it visually or sonically – the senses, providing solace and comfort in times of unrest.
Denys Cherevychko. Photograph: Marian Furnica
Such is a case in point for dance, which bestows a wealth of emotion when done with sheer intent. Ukrainian-born, Vienna-hailed dancer Denys Cherevychko knows a thing or two about the emotional power of this art form: as a Principal Dancer with a global pedigree, Cherevychko has proven to be far more than a theatrical fixture, shapeshifting from storytelling, mentorship, to building a leading voice in shaping balletʼs cultural landscape. But there’s more to the story.
Born in Donetsk, Ukraine, Denysʼs journey into ballet was not one of privilege but of determination and defiance of limits. As a child, he was drawn to movement, first through character dance. While growing up, his passion led him to Vadim Pisarevʼs Ballet Academy aged six—one year younger than the minimum required age. “Ballet is storytelling,” opines Cherevychko.
“I donʼt want the audience to admire technique; rather, I want them to feel something,” he explains. “Even someone who has never seen a ballet before should be able to understand the emotions on stage. If I can reach them, I’ve done my job.” By 11, a major occurrence took place which affected his creative path: the loss of his father teamed with severe financial hardships in his family. As an art form involving heavy expenses, ballet hung in the balance.
Balance by Cherevychko
Downturns notwithstanding, Cherevychko’s talent quickly garnered acclaim overseas. At 16, after winning first prize at the Serge Lifar Competition in Kyiv, he earned a scholarship to study at the revered Heinz Bosl Ballet Academy in Munich, training under Alexandr Prokofiev—a mentor who would not only refine his technique but instil in him a philosophy that would define his approach to dance.
As a mentor with depth and prowess, Prokofievʼs influence taught Denys that ballet was more than just technical perfection; rather, about presence, storytelling, and artistry. Cherevychko joined the Vienna State Ballet in 2006 under Gyula Harangozó’s baton, where he quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed demi-soloist in 2007, Soloist in 2009, and by 2012 he was made Principal Dancer.
Beyond the remits of ballet and dance, his mission also lies in reshaping the codes of classicism with a thrilling venture: Balance by Cherevychko, a dancewear label designed by dancers, for dancers. Balance is the first luxury-performance dancewear brand created to address real issues male dancers face—comprising everything from tights that twist and slip to t-shirts that won’t stay in place.
Balance by Cherevychko
“For years, I struggled with dancewear that disrupted my movement rather than supported it,” replies Denys Cherevychko, Principal Dancer of the Vienna State Ballet. “As ballet dancers, we aim for excellence, yet we’ve been taught to accept substandard dancewear. I created Balance to change that.” Aficionados encompass the likes of Paris Opera Ballet étoile Paul Marque, who defined the products as the best he’s ever worn.
“Male dancers know the feeling—walking into a dancewear store only to be led to the back, down a hallway, perhaps even to the basement, where a tiny corner holds a few uninspiring pieces: black tights, gray tights, and maybe a t-shirt or two,” notes Cherevychko. “That’s what inspired me to create Balance. Male dancers deserve more—dancewear that meets the same standards of excellence they demand from themselves.”
Balance by Cherevychko
Balance has gained a high level of craftsmanship, fashioned in collaboration with expert tailors who also produce for Europe’s most prestigious fashion houses, including brands like Balmain and Thierry Mugler. The seams, waistbands, and fabrics went through an extensive trial-and-error process for maximum comfort and durability, delivering both comfort and a striking presence on stage.
As artists part of the dance world are becoming cultural leaders, the label delivers a level of sophistication and performance to match through ethically-driven fabrics, local production, and durable design, setting a new standard for the industry.
by Chidozie Obasi