A U.S. ballet star born in South Dakota will become the first American to become a permanent member of Russia's legendary Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow.

David Hallberg, principle dancer for the American Ballet Theatre in New York, is reversing a trend that started 50 years ago when Rudolf Nureyev became the first Soviet ballet star to defect to the West, followed by Mikhail Baryshnikov.

Hallberg officially joins the famous Russian troupe on Thursday, in time for the new season. His first appearance with the Bolshoi will be in “Giselle.”

The 29-year-old Halberg is one of the top dancers in international ballet, combining good looks, technical brilliance and great acting ability that give him what Bolshoi artistic director Sergei Filin calls the best qualities of a classical dancer.

Hallberg, who does not speak Russian, says he personally feels a sense of responsibility as an American. The Bolshoi's new principal dancer says he will be bringing something different to the Russian company, but will also be respecting their traditions as well.