New York City Ballet Principal Adrian Danchig-Waring Retires After Near-Death Medical Crisis

Adrian Danchig-Waring, a star of New York City Ballet, is retiring following a harrowing medical ordeal that began two years ago. A herniated disc in his spine completely dissolved into fluid, and an epidural injection intended to treat the condition caused a severe bacterial infection. The complications were catastrophic: Danchig-Waring lost 25 pounds and temporarily lost the ability to walk. In the face of this near-death experience, he made what he describes as a deal with the universe, a decision that ultimately led to his retirement from the company. The New York Times reported on his story, which underscores the physical risks professional dancers face and the resilience required to recover from such a crisis. Danchig-Waring's career with New York City Ballet spanned years as a principal dancer, and his departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the institution. The article also appears alongside other arts news items, including Seattle artists advocating for funding from the city's public safety budget, Getty Images' plan to declare bankruptcy and go private, and Distrokid's removal of tracks following copyright claims by UMG. Additionally, several arts job openings are listed, such as positions at the Jacksonville Symphony, The Apollo, New York Theatre Ballet, and academic roles in dance. Danchig-Waring's retirement highlights the often-unseen toll of a dancer's career and the personal battles that can abruptly end it.