I started studying ballet at the age of three and continued through high school. I eventually stopped to pursue other sports and academic interests, but I grew

I started studying ballet at the age of three and continued through high school. I eventually stopped to pursue other sports and academic interests, but I grew up rather alone as a young boy with an immense appreciation for — borderline obsession with — Mikhail Baryshnikov. I vividly remember sharing in elementary school that Baryshnikov was my idol, while others talked of Michael Jordan and Bo Jackson, but it was usually just a source of ridicule, which I was used to. I'm in my thirties now and have always felt saddened by not having the chance to watch him perform as he retired about the age I started appreciating the greats in ballet. I ultimately married a (now retired) ballet dancer and we share the love for the art, though she more closely follows the female performers, understandably. I have to share that I always felt a bit embittered when friends who watched Sex and the City would talk about his character because they never knew who he really was – one of the greatest male ballet dancers to walk this earth. I will say, though, that I got a kick out of getting a chance to tell them. As an adult, my former life as a dancer is far more appreciated, especially when we'd go out to a club, and most certainly after I met my wife. I'm really excited to hear about this performance and I want to thank you for sharing. I will find a way to go, just to see him in the flesh.