San Francisco Ballet's longest-serving star, Yuan Yuan Tan, took a final, emotional bow on February 14, after a glittering 29-year career with the company. The farewell performance, where Tan danced the part of Marguerite in Frederick Ashton's "Marguerite and Armand," was a sell-out show at the War Memorial Opera House that left ballet aficionados gasping for more, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

While the fans adored her, some expressed discontent over the perceived snub by Artistic Director Tamara Rojo, who declined to grant Tan a full-evening farewell, a sentiment echoed in a somewhat hastily fashioned petition by Lydia Reviglio, seeking support for additional honors to recognize Tan's impact on ballet, according to the Chronicle. Tan, who turned 48 the same day as her goodbye performance, defied her age with every step, enchanting the audience with a conviction that displayed her unmatched grace and talent.

In a statement to San Francisco Ballet's press center, Tan expressed her gratitude towards mentors, colleagues, and fans who shared in the journey of her illustrious career. "I am indebted to my mentors and teachers, whose wisdom, encouragement, and belief in my potential have been instrumental in my success," Tan stated, illustrating the deep connection between her achievements and the support system that fostered her growth.

Born in Shanghai, Tan's unprecedented rise saw her become the company's youngest and first Chinese principal dancer in 1997. Her repertoire includes an impressive array of nearly 100 ballet pieces, and her work also extends far beyond the stage, like her collaboration with the Shanghai Theater Academy. Despite her transition from the San Francisco Ballet, the star's commitment to the art form seems unwavering, with plans for teaching and possibly continuing to perform at other venues, suggested by a Chronicle interview.

Former SF Ballet principal dancer Tiit Helimets joined Tan on stage at the 2024 Opening Night Gala, further celebrating her remarkable career. Additionally, San Francisco's former mayor Mark Farrell has honored her with the Mayor of San Francisco Art Award twice, recognizing her status as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest Chinese ballerinas of all time, surely a testament to her enduring legacy on the global ballet stage.