Ninette de Valois

Date of Birth: June 6, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: March 8, 2001

Biography

Dame Ninette de Valois, born Edris Stannus, was an Irish-born British dancer, teacher, choreographer, and director. She was born on June 6, 1898, in Baltiboys, County Wicklow, Ireland. De Valois is best known as the founder of the Royal Ballet, one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. Her career began with her training in ballet and performance in various ballet companies, including the Ballets Russes under Sergei Diaghilev. In 1926, she opened the Academy of Choreographic Art in London, which later became the Sadler’s Wells Ballet School and then the Royal Ballet School. Her vision and leadership transformed British ballet, and she was instrumental in establishing ballet as a significant art form in the UK. De Valois also choreographed numerous ballets, including “Job” and “The Rake’s Progress.” She retired from the Royal Ballet in 1963 but continued to influence the world of dance through her teaching and writing. Dame Ninette de Valois passed away on March 8, 2001, at the age of 102 in London, England.

5 Interesting Facts about Ninette de Valois

1. Ninette de Valois was born Edris Stannus but adopted her stage name early in her career.

2. She performed with the famous Ballets Russes under Sergei Diaghilev.

3. De Valois founded the Royal Ballet, one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world.

4. She was instrumental in the careers of many famous dancers, including Margot Fonteyn.

5. Dame Ninette de Valois was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1947 and was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1951.