Famous American Ballet Dancers

Misty Copeland is an American ballet dancer known for her groundbreaking achievements at American Ballet Theatre (ABT). She made history in 2015 by becoming the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer at ABT. Copeland's career trajectory includes starting ballet at 13, winning prestigious awards, and progressing from Studio Company to soloist. Beyond dance, she has ventured into public speaking, writing, stage performances, and endorsements for various brands. Copeland's influence extends globally, earning her a spot on Time magazine's list of 100 most influential people.

Mikhail Baryshnikov is a renowned Latvian and American dancer, choreographer, and actor. He was a leading male classical ballet dancer in the 1970s and 1980s before transitioning into a successful dance director. Baryshnikov began his career at the Kirov Ballet in Leningrad and later defected to Canada for more opportunities in Western dance. He has performed with prestigious companies like the American Ballet Theatre and New York City Ballet, where he also served as artistic director. Baryshnikov is known for his contributions to modern dance and his achievements as a dramatic actor on stage, cinema, and television.

Martha Graham was an influential American modern dancer and choreographer known for developing the Graham technique, which revolutionized American dance. Over her career spanning more than seventy years, she made significant contributions to the art form, becoming the first dancer to perform at the White House and receiving prestigious awards like the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Graham's impact extended globally as she traveled as a cultural ambassador, spreading her innovative techniques and philosophy on dance. Her legacy lives on through the Martha Graham School, the oldest dance school in the United States.

Alvin Ailey Jr. was a visionary American dancer, director, and activist known for founding the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT). Through AAADT and the Ailey School, he provided platforms for nurturing Black artists and showcasing the African-American experience through dance. Ailey's choreography skillfully blended theater, modern dance, ballet, and jazz with Black vernacular, creating impactful works like Revelations. His contributions to the arts were globally recognized, with AAADT being designated a cultural ambassador by the US Congress and honored by city and state officials.

Michaela DePrince is a renowned Sierra Leonean-American ballet dancer who has achieved significant success in the world of ballet. She gained widespread recognition after appearing in the documentary First Position, showcasing her talent and determination as a young ballet dancer. With a career that includes performances with prestigious ballet companies such as the Dance Theatre of Harlem and the Dutch National Ballet, DePrince has proven herself as a remarkable talent in the ballet world. Additionally, she serves as a goodwill ambassador for the organization War Child, further demonstrating her commitment to using her platform for positive impact.

Twyla Tharp is an influential American dancer, choreographer, and author based in New York City. In 1965, she founded Twyla Tharp Dance, later merging it with American Ballet Theatre in 1988 and reestablishing the company in 1991. Tharp's diverse body of work incorporates classical music, jazz, and contemporary pop music. She gained worldwide acclaim through extensive touring with her company from 1971 to 1988, creating innovative pieces like Deuce Coupe and Push Comes to Shove, the latter featuring Mikhail Baryshnikov. Tharp's contributions were recognized with an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from Harvard University in 2018.

Leslie Caron is a renowned French-American actress and dancer with a successful career spanning several decades. She began as a ballerina before transitioning to film, gaining recognition for her roles in iconic movies such as "An American in Paris," "Lili," "Gigi," and "The L-Shaped Room." Caron's talent and versatility have earned her numerous awards and nominations, including Golden Globe Awards, BAFTA Awards, and an Emmy Award. She has portrayed a wide range of characters in both dramatic and comedic roles, showcasing her skill and depth as an actress.

Isabella Boylston is an accomplished American ballet dancer, renowned for her exceptional talent and artistry. She holds the prestigious position of principal dancer at the esteemed American Ballet Theatre (ABT), showcasing her remarkable skills on stages worldwide. With grace and precision, Boylston captivates audiences with her captivating performances, embodying a diverse range of roles with elegance and poise. Her dedication to the craft and unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified her reputation as one of the leading figures in the world of ballet.

Maria Tallchief was a pioneering ballerina who made significant contributions to the world of ballet. She was America's first major prima ballerina and the first Osage Tribe member to hold that rank. Collaborating with choreographer George Balanchine, she played a pivotal role in revolutionizing ballet. Tallchief's professional career was marked by her exceptional talent, dedication, and artistry, making her a trailblazer in the dance world and leaving a lasting impact on the history of ballet.

Julia Goldani Telles is a talented Brazilian-American actress and ballet dancer. She gained recognition for her role as Sasha Torres in the ABC Family series Bunheads. Telles further showcased her acting skills as Iris in the third season of The Girlfriend Experience. She also delivered a compelling performance as Whitney Solloway in the Showtime original series The Affair. Her diverse roles demonstrate her versatility and ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters, solidifying her status as a rising star in the entertainment industry.

Agnes de Mille was a prominent American dancer and choreographer known for her innovative contributions to the world of dance. She gained fame for blending narrative elements with dance, creating a unique and influential style. De Mille choreographed numerous ballets and musicals, including the iconic "Oklahoma!" which revolutionized the integration of dance in musical theater. Her work is celebrated for its emotional depth and storytelling, establishing her as a trailblazer in the world of dance and earning her a lasting legacy in the performing arts.

Robin Antin is an accomplished American dancer and choreographer known for founding the modern burlesque troupe, the Pussycat Dolls, in 1995. Over the years, she has expanded her career into various media ventures, including forming successful pop recording groups like the Pussycat Dolls, G.R.L., Girlicious, and Paradiso Girls. Additionally, she has ventured into the entertainment industry with a Las Vegas nightclub venue and floor show, as well as creating merchandise and a reality television series. Antin's innovative work continues to shape the music and dance industries.

Ethan Stiefel is an accomplished American dancer, choreographer, and director with an impressive career in the world of ballet. He served as a principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre for over a decade, showcasing his exceptional talent and artistry. Stiefel later expanded his influence by taking on the role of artistic director at the Royal New Zealand Ballet, where he further contributed to the dance community. His dedication to the art form and his innovative choreography have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the ballet world.

Langston Fishburne is a talented American actor known for his versatility and commitment to his craft. With a career spanning over a decade, Fishburne has showcased his acting skills in a wide range of projects, including film, television, and theater. He has demonstrated a strong ability to inhabit a variety of roles, from dramatic to comedic, and has garnered critical acclaim for his performances. Fishburne continues to pursue challenging and diverse projects, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and dedicated actor in the industry.

Pati Behrs Eristoff was a renowned Russian American prima ballerina and actress. Throughout her career, she captivated audiences with her exceptional grace, skill, and artistry on stage. Known for her versatility and dramatic range, she seamlessly transitioned between classical ballet performances and theatrical roles, earning critical acclaim and admiration from fans worldwide. With a career spanning decades, Pati Behrs left a lasting legacy in the world of performing arts, inspiring future generations of dancers and actors.

Suzanne Farrell is an esteemed American ballerina known for founding the Suzanne Farrell Ballet at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. She began her ballet training in Cincinnati and received a scholarship to the School of American Ballet in 1960. A muse of George Balanchine, Farrell had leading roles in the early 1960s. She danced for Maurice Bejart's Ballet of the 20th Century before collaborating with Balanchine until his death in 1983. Following retirement in 1989, she has taught at various ballet schools and institutions, including the New York City Ballet and Florida State University. Farrell has received numerous awards and honors for her significant contributions to the world of ballet, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Irina Dvorovenko is a Ukrainian-American retired ballet dancer and actress who achieved great success as a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. Known for her exceptional talent and artistry, she captivated audiences with her performances on stages around the world. Throughout her career, she garnered critical acclaim for her technical precision, emotional depth, and versatility as a dancer. Dvorovenko's dedication to her craft and her ability to bring characters to life through her dancing solidified her reputation as one of the leading figures in the ballet world.

Michael Kidd was a renowned American film and stage choreographer, dancer, and actor, known for his innovative work in Broadway and film musicals during the 1940s and 1950s. Influenced by Charlie Chaplin and Léonide Massine, he pioneered the "integrated musical" style, where dance movements were crucial to the plot. His choreography in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, particularly the barn-raising sequence, was highly acclaimed. Kidd was the first choreographer to win five Tony Awards and received an honorary Oscar in 1996 for his contributions to dance in film.

Wendy Whelan is an accomplished American ballet dancer known for her 30-year tenure as a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet. She has performed extensively in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, showcasing her talent and artistry on stages around the world. Whelan has also made significant contributions as a guest artist with Morphoses/The Wheeldon Company. In 2019, she was appointed as the Associate Artistic Director of New York City Ballet, further solidifying her legacy in the world of dance.

Sascha Radetsky is a distinguished figure in the world of ballet and acting. His career includes being a soloist with the American Ballet Theatre and later a principal dancer with Dutch National Ballet. Radetsky gained recognition for his roles in the film "Center Stage" and the Starz miniseries "Flesh and Bone." In 2018, he assumed the role of artistic director for American Ballet Theatre's Studio Company, further solidifying his influence and impact on the dance community.

Alexandra Danilova was a renowned prima ballerina who transitioned from Russia to the United States, where she flourished in her career. She captivated audiences with her exquisite performances and technical prowess, earning widespread acclaim in the ballet world. Throughout her illustrious career, Danilova showcased her exceptional talents on stages around the globe, leaving a lasting impact on the art of ballet. Her contributions were honored with prestigious accolades, including the Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing her lifetime dedication and achievements in the field.

Janet Collins was a pioneering African American prima ballerina, choreographer, and teacher. She made a significant impact in the world of dance through her performances on Broadway, in films, and on television. Collins was known for being one of the few classically trained Black dancers of her generation, breaking barriers and paving the way for future black ballet dancers. Her talent and dedication to her craft helped her achieve great success and recognition in the dance world.

Leslie Browne is an accomplished American prima ballerina and actress known for her work with the American Ballet Theatre in New York City. She performed as a principal dancer from 1986 to 1993. Browne received critical acclaim and award nominations for her role in the film "The Turning Point" in 1977, where she portrayed a young dancer invited to join a prestigious New York ballet company. Her talent and dedication have solidified her reputation as a versatile performer in both the ballet and film industries.

Justin Peck is a prominent American choreographer, director, and dancer affiliated with the New York City Ballet, where he holds the title of Resident Choreographer since 2014. He is a two-time Tony Award winner for Best Choreography, recognized for his work on the revival of Carousel in 2018 and the original dance musical Illinoise in 2024. Peck has also made significant contributions to the film industry, choreographing dance sequences for acclaimed productions such as West Side Story (2021) and Maestro (2023).

Eliot Feld is a prominent American modern ballet choreographer, performer, teacher, and director known for his contributions to contemporary ballet. He founded the Feld Ballet and Ballet Tech, institutions dedicated to dance and dance education in New York City. With a prolific career spanning over five decades, Feld has choreographed 149 ballets since 1967, which have been showcased by prestigious companies such as American Ballet Theatre, the Joffrey Ballet, and New York City Ballet, as well as acclaimed artists like Mikhail Baryshnikov.

Alexei Ratmansky is a renowned Russian-Ukrainian-American choreographer and former ballet dancer. He served as the director of the Moscow Bolshoi Ballet from 2004 to 2008 before leaving Russia. In 2009, he became the artist in residence at the American Ballet Theatre, and later held the same position at the New York City Ballet. Ratmansky is celebrated for his innovative choreography, blending classical ballet techniques with contemporary influences to create captivating performances that have garnered international acclaim.

Robert Joffrey was a prominent figure in the world of dance, known for his innovative contributions as a dancer, teacher, producer, and choreographer. As the co-founder of the Joffrey Ballet, he left a lasting impact on the field of modern ballet with his highly imaginative and creative works. Throughout his career, Joffrey established himself as a trailblazer, pushing boundaries and redefining the art form with his unique vision and passion for dance.

Edward Villella is an esteemed American ballet dancer and choreographer, renowned as one of the most celebrated male ballet dancers in America. Throughout his illustrious career, he has garnered a plethora of awards, including the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, the National Medal of Arts, and a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Children's Special. Villella's exceptional talent and dedication to his craft have solidified his legacy in the world of ballet, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.

Nora Kaye-Ross was an American prima-ballerina celebrated for her expressive portrayals of dramatic roles. Revered as the Duse of Dance, a moniker inspired by the renowned actress Eleonora Duse, Kaye-Ross showcased her exceptional talents on both stage and screen. Her versatile career extended to choreography and production work in the film industry, as well as captivating performances on Broadway. With a legacy marked by artistic excellence and versatility, Nora Kaye-Ross remains a pivotal figure in the world of dance and entertainment.

John Neumeier is a renowned American ballet dancer, choreographer, and director. He has been the director and chief choreographer of Hamburg Ballet since 1973, where he founded the Hamburg Ballet School in 1978, including a boarding school for students. In 1996, Neumeier was appointed as the ballet director of Hamburg State Opera. Throughout his illustrious career, he has contributed significantly to the world of ballet, leaving a lasting impact on the art form. Neumeier retired in 2024 after decades of dedicated service to the dance community.

Alexander Godunov was a renowned Russian-American ballet dancer and film actor. He started his career as a member of the Bolshoi Ballet and quickly rose to become the troupe's Premier danseur. In 1979, he defected to the United States, where he continued his dance career while also transitioning into acting in Hollywood films. He gained recognition for his roles in movies like Witness (1985) and Die Hard (1988), establishing himself as a talented and versatile performer on both stage and screen.

Tamara Geva was a versatile Soviet and American performer known for her talents in acting, ballet dancing, and choreography. She gained recognition for her work with Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, where she showcased her skills as a dancer. As the first wife of famed ballet dancer and choreographer George Balanchine, she collaborated with him on various projects. Geva also made a significant impact on Broadway and Hollywood, where she both performed in and choreographed numerous successful productions, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of performing arts.

Mayte Jannell Garcia is a multi-talented American dancer, actress/actor, and former singer known for her work in the entertainment industry. She gained prominence for her marriage to the iconic musician Prince and has collaborated with numerous music artists throughout her career. Her skills as a dancer and actress have been showcased in various projects, contributing to her reputation as a versatile performer. With a background in music and dance, Mayte Garcia continues to leave a mark in the industry with her talent and creativity.

Erick Hawkins was a prominent American modern-dance choreographer and dancer known for his innovative and expressive work. He played a significant role in shaping the landscape of modern dance through his unique choreographic style and collaborations with influential artists. Hawkins established his own dance company, which became a platform for showcasing his groundbreaking choreography. His contributions to the world of dance were characterized by a blend of athleticism, grace, and a deep understanding of movement aesthetics. Hawkins' legacy continues to inspire and influence contemporary dance practitioners worldwide.

Patricia McBride is a renowned ballerina known for her illustrious career spanning nearly three decades with the New York City Ballet. Joining the company in 1959, she quickly rose to prominence, becoming its youngest principal dancer in 1961. McBride captivated audiences with her exceptional talent, performing iconic roles in ballets choreographed by George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins. Her dedication and artistry left a lasting impact on the world of dance, solidifying her legacy as one of the most celebrated ballerinas of her time.

Antony Tudor, an English ballet choreographer, teacher, and dancer, made significant contributions to the world of dance. He established the London Ballet and later founded the Philadelphia Ballet Guild in the mid-1950s. Tudor's innovative choreography and unique teaching methods helped shape the ballet landscape. His work continues to influence and inspire dancers and choreographers worldwide. Tudor's legacy is marked by his dedication to the art of ballet and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional dance forms.

Eva Evdokimova was a renowned Prima Ballerina Assoluta known for her exceptional talent and artistry. She graced the stages of esteemed ballet companies such as the Royal Danish Ballet, Berlin Opera Ballet, and English National Ballet. Her performances captivated audiences globally, earning her the status of a sought-after guest artist with prestigious ballet companies worldwide. Evdokimova's career was marked by her exquisite technique, emotional depth, and profound dedication to her craft, solidifying her place as one of ballet's most beloved and revered figures.

Pearl Lang was an esteemed American dancer, choreographer, and teacher recognized for her exceptional talent in interpreting and promoting Martha Graham's choreography style. She established the Pearl Lang Dance Theater, where she showcased her own innovative works alongside her interpretation of Graham's pieces. Lang's contributions to dance are highlighted in various productions like "Appalachian Spring," "American Masters," and "Driven." Throughout her professional career, she left a lasting impact on the dance world through her creativity, skill, and dedication to the art form.

Fernando Bujones was a highly acclaimed American dancer known for his exceptional talent and skill. He was recognized as one of the finest male dancers of the 20th century and celebrated as one of the greatest American male dancers of his generation. Bujones had a successful professional career, performing in numerous prestigious ballet productions and earning accolades for his outstanding performances. His dedication to his craft and his ability to captivate audiences with his artistry solidified his reputation as a remarkable and influential figure in the world of dance.

Albertina Rasch was a prominent figure in the world of dance, known for her contributions as a dancer, company director, and choreographer. She made a significant impact on the performing arts industry with her innovative choreography and artistic vision. Rasch's work was characterized by a unique blend of traditional and modern dance styles, earning her recognition and acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Through her leadership and creativity, she left a lasting legacy in the realm of dance and performance.

Ruth Page was an American ballerina and choreographer known for her innovative works that often centered on American themes. She made significant contributions to the world of dance through her unique choreographic style and groundbreaking productions. Page was a pioneering figure in the development of American ballet, blending classical techniques with a modern sensibility. Her work showcased a deep understanding of movement and storytelling, earning her a reputation as a trailblazer in the dance world.

Gelsey Kirkland is an American prima ballerina known for her exceptional talent and contributions to the world of ballet. She received her early training at the School of American Ballet and joined the New York City Ballet in 1968, showcasing her skills in various leading roles. Kirkland was promoted to soloist and principal dancer, impressing audiences with her performances in iconic ballets by Balanchine, Robbins, and Tudor. She later joined the American Ballet Theatre as a principal dancer, further solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the ballet world.

André Eglevsky was a renowned ballet dancer and teacher with a diverse and successful career. He danced with various prestigious companies in Europe and the United States, including the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, American Ballet Theatre, and New York City Ballet. After retiring from performing, he established his own ballet school and company in New York, leaving a lasting impact on the world of ballet through his teaching and choreography.

Yvonne Chouteau was an American ballerina known as one of the "Five Moons" of Oklahoma. She made history as the youngest dancer accepted to the Ballet Russe de Monte-Carlo in 1943, where she danced for fourteen years. In 1962, she co-founded the first fully accredited university dance program in the U.S. at the University of Oklahoma. Chouteau's legacy extended to being a member of the Shawnee Tribe and having French ancestry. She left a lasting impact on the world of dance with her talent and contributions.

Diana Adams was a prominent principal dancer for the New York City Ballet from 1950 to 1963, known for her close collaboration with choreographer George Balanchine. She was celebrated as one of Balanchine's muses and starred in numerous ballets, including Western Symphony, Ivesiana, and Agon. Adams' exceptional talent and artistry shone through in her performances and the roles created specifically for her by Balanchine. Her contributions to the world of ballet were significant and enduring, solidifying her legacy as a respected dancer and teacher.

Cynthia Gregory is a distinguished American former prima ballerina known for her exceptional talent and artistry. Throughout her illustrious career, she captivated audiences with her grace, technique, and emotional depth in a wide range of classical and contemporary ballet roles. Renowned for her exquisite line and expressive interpretation, Gregory collaborated with the most prestigious ballet companies worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of dance. Her performances were marked by a unique blend of technical prowess and artistic sensitivity, earning her widespread acclaim and admiration.

William Forsythe is an American dancer and choreographer known for his innovative work with Ballet Frankfurt and The Forsythe Company. His choreography seamlessly integrates ballet and visual arts, showcasing a unique blend of abstraction and theatricality. Forsythe's approach to choreography as an organizational practice has led him to create various installations, films, and web-based projects. He is recognized for his experimental use of spoken word and music, pushing the boundaries of traditional dance and inspiring a new generation of artists.

Tatiana Riabouchinska was a renowned prima ballerina and teacher known for her exceptional talent and artistry. Beginning her career at a young age, she gained fame as one of the "Baby Ballerinas" of the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo in the 1930s. Over the years, she evolved into a highly respected artist, earning praise from critics who hailed her as the most unique dancer of her generation. Throughout her professional life, Riabouchinska left a lasting impact on the world of ballet with her extraordinary performances and contributions as a teacher.

Marjorie Tallchief was a trailblazing American ballerina and member of the Osage Nation. She achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Native American to be named "première danseuse étoile" in the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet. Her professional career was marked by exceptional talent, dedication, and groundbreaking achievements in the world of ballet. Tallchief's legacy as a pioneering dancer continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of performers, leaving an indelible mark on the history of ballet.

Jackson Haines was an innovative American figure skater and roller skater known as the father of modern figure skating. He revolutionized the sport by incorporating elements of ballet and dance into his performances, moving away from traditional rigid techniques. Haines popularized the idea of combining music with skating, creating choreographed routines that showcased his artistic expression. His unique style and techniques laid the foundation for the development of figure skating as a form of artistic expression rather than just a competitive sport.

Francisco Moncion was a distinguished member of the New York City Ballet, known for his contributions as a dancer, choreographer, and painter. Throughout his four-decade career, he played a pivotal role in shaping the dance world by creating iconic roles in works by renowned choreographers such as George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins. Moncion's artistic versatility was evident in his ability to not only excel as a performer but also to showcase his talent as a choreographer and visual artist, leaving a lasting impact on the arts community.

Rebecca Wright was a prominent American ballerina, teacher, choreographer, and ballet school director. She began her dance career with a background in gymnastics and tap dance, training under Josephine Schwarz at the Dayton Ballet. Wright danced as a principal with the Joffrey Ballet and later as a soloist with American Ballet Theatre. After retiring from dance, she focused on teaching and choreography, holding positions at institutions such as the California Institute of the Arts and the Washington School of Ballet. Wright passed away in 2006.

Frederic Franklin, also known as "Freddie," was a prominent British-American ballet dancer, choreographer, and director. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the world of dance with his exceptional talent and creativity. Franklin's expertise in choreography and leadership skills led him to work with renowned ballet companies and artists around the globe. His legacy includes a wide range of successful performances, innovative choreographic works, and influential directorial roles that have left a lasting impact on the dance community.

Nina Popova was a renowned ballet dancer and teacher with a successful career spanning several decades. She performed with ballet companies such as the Original Ballet Russe and Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, showcasing her talent on stage and on television. Popova later transitioned to teaching and became the Artistic Director of the Houston Ballet, where she played a crucial role in establishing a professional dance company. Her contributions to the world of ballet left a lasting impact on the industry.

Viper, also known as Stephanie Patricia Green, was an American pornographic actress who gained recognition for her full-body snake tattoo and her involvement in co-founding Fans of X-Rated Entertainment with Bill Margold. Throughout her career, she starred in numerous adult films and became a notable figure in the adult entertainment industry. Viper's mysterious disappearance in 1991 left many fans and industry colleagues puzzled, adding to the enigmatic allure of her professional legacy.

Vera Maxwell was an American pioneering sportswear and fashion designer. Throughout her career, she became known for her innovative designs that combined practicality with style, particularly in the realm of sportswear. Maxwell's work revolutionized the fashion industry by emphasizing comfort and functionality without compromising on elegance. Her designs were popular for their versatility and ability to transition seamlessly from day to evening wear. Maxwell's legacy as a trailblazer in fashion design continues to inspire contemporary designers and shape the industry today.

Phyllis Hill was an American dancer and actress known for her prolific career in the entertainment industry. With a passion for performing, she captivated audiences with her talent and skill. Hill's dedication to her craft led to numerous successful performances in both dance and acting. She established herself as a versatile and respected artist, showcasing her abilities on stage and screen. Throughout her professional life, Phyllis Hill left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment with her remarkable performances and contributions to the arts.

Janet Reed was a prominent American ballerina and ballet mistress known for her significant contributions to the world of dance. She began her career with the San Francisco Ballet, where she danced as a leading ballerina. Reed later worked with Ballet Theatre and the New York City Ballet, eventually becoming its ballet mistress in 1959. After retiring from performing, she dedicated her time to teaching and played a key role in founding Pacific Northwest Dance, serving as its first artistic director until 1976.

Sterling Hyltin is an accomplished American ballet dancer known for her exceptional talent and artistry. As a principal dancer at the renowned New York City Ballet, she has captivated audiences with her exquisite performances and technical prowess. Hyltin's career is characterized by her dedication to the art of ballet, showcasing versatility and grace in a wide range of classical and contemporary repertoire. Through her passion and commitment, she has established herself as a leading figure in the world of dance, inspiring admiration and awe among peers and fans alike.

Richard Cragun was an acclaimed American ballet dancer, teacher, and ballet director known for his extraordinary talent and contributions to the dance world. He performed with the prestigious Stuttgart Ballet in Germany for over three decades, from 1965 to 1996. Throughout his illustrious career, Cragun was celebrated as a "prince of the ballet world" and recognized as one of the most significant dancers of the twentieth century. His artistry, skill, and dedication left a lasting impact on the world of ballet.

Albert Evans was a renowned American ballet dancer and choreographer. He began his career with the New York City Ballet in 1988 and rose to become a principal dancer in 1995, making history as the second African American to hold that position. Alongside his successful performing career, Evans also delved into choreography. He retired from performing in 2010 but continued to contribute to the ballet world by serving as a ballet master until his passing, leaving a lasting legacy in the dance community.

Arthur Mitchell was a pioneering American ballet dancer, choreographer, and founder and director of ballet companies. He made history as the first African-American dancer with the New York City Ballet in 1955, where he quickly rose to become a principal dancer. Mitchell then went on to found ballet companies in various locations, including Spoleto, Washington, D.C., and Brazil. In 1969, he established the Dance Theatre of Harlem, the first African-American classical ballet company. Throughout his career, Mitchell received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of dance.

Viola Farber was a renowned American choreographer and dancer known for her innovative and expressive work. She made significant contributions to the world of dance through her unique choreographic style and collaborations with various artists. Farber's performances were celebrated for their emotional depth and technical precision, earning her a reputation as a pioneering figure in contemporary dance. Her influence extended beyond the stage, inspiring future generations of dancers and choreographers with her creativity and artistry.

Lawrence Rhodes was an esteemed American premier dancer, dance teacher, and director of ballet companies. He made significant contributions as the head of the dance divisions at New York University and the Juilliard School. His expertise and passion for dance were evident in his work, influencing and inspiring countless students and professionals in the industry. Through his leadership and artistic vision, Lawrence Rhodes left a lasting impact on the world of dance, shaping the careers of many aspiring dancers and furthering the art form.

Bertram Ross was an American dancer renowned for his work with the Martha Graham Dance Company, where he served as Martha Graham's principal dance partner for two decades. He is credited with originating male roles in many of Graham's major ballets from the 1950s and 1960s. Following his tenure with Graham, Ross pursued a career in teaching, choreography, and even established his own dance company. Later on, he embarked on a successful cabaret duo tour with his partner, composer, and pianist John Wallowitch.

Dorothy Alexander was a prominent figure in the world of ballet, known for her contributions as a dancer, choreographer, teacher, and company director. In 1929, she founded what would later become known as the Atlanta Ballet, leaving a lasting impact on the dance community. Through her leadership and artistic vision, she played a key role in shaping the Atlanta Ballet into a respected institution. Alexander's dedication to the art of ballet and her commitment to nurturing talent have left a significant mark on the world of dance.

Gillian Murphy is an accomplished American ballet dancer known for her role as a principal dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. With a career spanning several years, Murphy has garnered acclaim for her exceptional talent, technical prowess, and captivating stage presence. She has performed in numerous leading roles in classical and contemporary ballet productions, showcasing her versatility and artistry. Murphy's dedication to her craft and commitment to excellence have solidified her reputation as one of the leading dancers in the world of ballet.

Mary Day was an influential figure in the world of ballet, known for her role as a ballet teacher and arts administrator. She made significant contributions to the field as the founder of The Washington Ballet, where she also served as the artistic director for many years. Under her leadership, The Washington Ballet grew in reputation and artistic excellence. Her dedication to the art form and commitment to nurturing talent helped shape the ballet community and inspire future generations of dancers.

John Taras was a prominent figure in the world of ballet, known for his exceptional skills as a ballet master, repetiteur, and choreographer. Throughout his career, he made significant contributions to the art form, working with renowned ballet companies and dancers around the world. His choreographic work showcased a unique blend of classical technique and modern innovation, earning him a reputation as a versatile and visionary artist. Taras's influence on the ballet world continues to be felt through the enduring impact of his creations and teachings.

Gerald Arpino was an influential figure in the world of dance as an American dancer and choreographer. He co-founded the Joffrey Ballet and played a pivotal role in shaping its artistic direction. Arpino succeeded Robert Joffrey as the artistic director of the ballet company in 1988, further solidifying his impact on the dance community. Through his innovative choreography and leadership, Arpino left a lasting legacy in the world of ballet, inspiring countless dancers and audiences with his work.