Bravo Bocca

When we hear about enormous outdoor crowds in Buenos Aires, we invariably think of The Rolling Stones and other mega-concerts that have taken place over the years in Argentina’s capital.

But on December 22nd, a crowd estimated at up to 300,000 turned out for a free concert to honor a ballet dancer in front of the city’s Obelisk monument where Avenida 9 de Julio and Avenida Corrientes come together.

Julio Bocca, an icon of Argentine classical dance, gave his final performance and was feted with a concert featuring leading performers of tango, jazz and pop as well as ballet artists.

In a performance described by the Los Angeles Times as "Vegas-worthy in terms of sheer spectacle and panache," the 40-year-old Bocca put on a two-and-a-half hour performance that included dances from "Don Quixote" and the "Black Swan" ballets.

Bocca spent 20 years as the principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre in New York City and won a gold medal at the Moscow International Ballet Competition. He also performed for three months on Broadway in productions of "Fosse" and with Boris Eifman’s company in "Red Hamlet," according to the Times.

Joining Bocca in the massive retirement celebration were singers Mercedes Sosa, Viviana Vigil and Sandra M, with musical groups Octango and Antigua Jazz Band.

ABT dancers Jose Manuel Carreno and Figaredo preformed, as well as Paris Opera Ballet’s Manuel Legris.

"I’m very happy with the way I’m going to finish my career – on a high and the best way an artist can end. I have no plans but to enjoy this moment," Bocca told the Los Angeles Times. "I want to stop, relax and take time to think and figure what to do next."

Bocca will remain as artistic director of Ballet Argentino and oversee a charitable foundation in Buenos Aires.