The senior state officials transmitted condolences to the grieving family and all those who knew and appreciated Vladimir Curbet. The obituary was signed by President Igor Dodon, Parliament Speaker Andrian Candu and Prime Minister Pavel Filip and also by Minister of Culture, Education and Research Monica Babuc, IPN reports.

“Master Vladimir Curbet, who dedicated his whole life to the choreographic traditions and artistic expression of the folk dance, was chief master of ballet and educated tens of genera rations of artists at the State National Academy Folk Dances Ensemble “Joc” passed away. We are profoundly saddened and deeply regret this enormous loss,” says the obituary.

Born in Susleni village of Orhei district on December 5, 1930, Vladimir Curbet graduated from the Music School “Stefan Neaga” of Chisinau in 1966. In 1958, he became the artistic director and chief master of ballet of “Joc”. “Vladimir Curbet staged with the Ensemble “Joc” about 10,000 performances in over 70 countries, the folk dance becoming a visiting card and the symbol of Moldova abroad, while “Joc” became a real envoy of the national culture. The Master’s creation occupies a special place in the National Heritage,” says the obituary.

Condolences were also offered by political parties. “Today the Republic of Moldova lost a great man. This unique personality will remain in the memory of all the friends, colleagues, pupils and admirers of Vladimir Curbet,” the leader of the Party of Socialists Zinaida Grecheanyi wrote on a social networking site.

“Each of us felt this death as a personal loss. It is not surprising. We are witness to the Curbet Epoch as this man promoted and glorified the country all over the world,” said the Communist leader Vladimir Voronin. He noted that the future generations should do everything to make sure that his works are kept and appreciated and this will be the best memory for this man.

Master Vladimir Curbet died in the morning of December 8 at the age of 87.