We’ve got a good-news update on ballerina Joy Womack, the first American woman to dance with the Bolshoi Ballet, who quit the company last November, after accusations of extortion against the company bigwigs. (Womack said she was told she could either put up $10,000 or find a patron if she hoped to perform.) Fortunately, she seems to have found a happy home at the Kremlin Ballet, which she joined at the beginning of this year.

Womack’s debut performance was February 2, in the lead role of Marie in the company’s version of The Nutcracker. In typical ballerina fashion, she had to adapt to a new partner at the last minute—her original partner injured his knee before the show. The performance was attended by outgoing U.S. ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul.

Congratulations on your new position with the Kremlin Ballet, Joy! We’re rooting for you.

Photos from top: by Vihao Pham; by Elizabeth Shockman