Bolshoi cast defend dancer arrested over acid attack

More than 300 members of Russia's Bolshoi Ballet have come out in defence of a dancer accused of masterminding an acid attack on the artistic director.

In an open letter to President Vladimir Putin, theatre staff said the idea that soloist Pavel Dmitrichenko was behind the crime was "absurd".

The dancer has admitted to discussing an attack on Sergei Filin, but denies ordering the use of acid.

Mr Dmitrichenko was arrested with two others earlier this month.

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Police said they believed Mr Dmitrichenko had paid 50,000 roubles (£1,090; $1,600) for the attack on Mr Filin.

The artistic director's eyesight was damaged when a masked attacker threw sulphuric acid in his face in January.

After a series of operations on his eyes, the 42-year-old has been moved to Germany, where doctors have expressed hope that further treatment may be able to restore good vision.
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