Patrick Dupond

Patrick Dupond was a renowned French ballet dancer and artistic director. He gained international recognition in 1976 when he won the gold medal at the Varna International Ballet Competition in Bulgaria1. A virtuoso performer, he became a danseur étoile of the Paris Opera Ballet in 1980 and later served as its dance director from 1990 to 1995.

Throughout his career, he collaborated with legendary choreographers such as Rudolf Nureyev, Maurice Béjart, and Alvin Ailey. Despite his success, he left the Paris Opera Ballet in 1997, reportedly due to "insubordination and indiscipline"1.

Dupond passed away on March 5, 2021, at the age of 61, after battling lung cancer, which had unfortunately spread before it was detected. His legacy continues to be celebrated, including a tribute by the Paris Opera Ballet in 2023

Carla Fracci,

Carla Fracci was an iconic Italian ballet dancer, widely regarded as one of the greatest ballerinas of the 20th century. Born in Milan on August 20, 1936, she trained at the Teatro alla Scala and quickly rose to prominence, becoming a prima ballerina in 1958.

She was celebrated for her expressive and dramatic performances, particularly in romantic roles such as Giselle, Swanilda, and Juliet. Fracci danced alongside legendary partners like Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Erik Bruhn, and performed with prestigious companies worldwide, including the Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and Stuttgart Ballet.

Beyond her stage career, she directed ballet companies at Teatro San Carlo, Arena di Verona, and Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, and was an ambassador for dance education. She passed away on May 27, 2021, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of ballet.

Michaela Mabinty DePrince, 

Michaela Mabinty DePrince was a Sierra Leonean–American ballet dancer known for her inspiring journey from war orphan to internationally acclaimed performer. Born Mabinty Bangura in Kenema, Sierra Leone, on January 6, 1995, she lost both parents during the civil war and was placed in an orphanage, where she faced mistreatment due to her vitiligo, a skin condition that causes depigmentation.

At the age of four, she was adopted by an American couple and moved to New Jersey, where she pursued her passion for ballet. She trained at The Rock School for Dance Education and later joined prestigious companies such as the Dance Theatre of Harlem, Dutch National Ballet, and Boston Ballet. She gained international recognition after starring in the documentary First Position (2011) and co-authoring the book Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina (2014).

Tragically, DePrince passed away on September 10, 2024, at the age of 29. Her family announced her death but did not disclose the cause3. She was remembered as a trailblazer who advocated for diversity in ballet and worked as a goodwill ambassador for War Child, supporting children affected by conflict

 

Robin Windsor,

Robin Windsor was an English professional Latin and ballroom dancer, best known for his time on Strictly Come Dancing. Born on September 15, 1979, in Ipswich, England, he started dancing at the age of three and went on to represent England in international competitions.

He joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, partnering with celebrities like Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley, and Deborah Meaden. Windsor was known for his charismatic performances and his advocacy for same-sex ballroom dancing, making history in 2014 when he performed the show's first-ever same-sex dance.

Tragically, Windsor passed away on February 19, 2024, at the age of 44. The cause of his death was not publicly disclosed, but tributes poured in from fellow dancers and celebrities, remembering him as a talented performer and a kind-hearted individual

Eileen Kramer,

Eileen Kramer was an Australian dancer, choreographer, artist, and performer who lived an extraordinary life. Born on November 8, 1914, in Mosman Bay, New South Wales, she became a pioneering figure in modern dance, particularly through her work with the Bodenwieser Ballet, Australia's first modern dance company.

She spent decades traveling and working in France, India, the United States, and Australia, continuing to create and perform well into her later years. Even after turning 100, she remained active in the arts, collaborating on dance projects, writing books, and painting.

Kramer passed away on November 15, 2024, at the age of 110, making her one of the longest-living dancers in history. She was celebrated as a trailblazer and a true creative spirit, leaving behind a legacy of artistic innovation and resilience

Julian Benson,

Julian Benson was an Australian-born Irish dancer, choreographer, and talent agent, best known for his role as a judge on Dancing with the Stars Ireland. Born on February 26, 1971, in Adelaide, Australia, he moved to Ireland as a child and pursued a career in dance and entertainment.

Benson was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of two and was given a life expectancy of just 13 years. Despite this, he kept his diagnosis private for decades and continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. He later founded the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, which supports individuals and families affected by the condition.

Tragically, Benson passed away on April 19, 2025, at the age of 54, due to complications from cystic fibrosis. His legacy lives on through his foundation and his contributions to dance and television.

Christian Holder,

Christian Holder was a British-Trinidadian dancer, choreographer, actor, and artist, celebrated for his contributions to the Joffrey Ballet in the 1970s. Born on June 18, 1949, in Port of Spain, Trinidad, he came from an artistic family—his father, Boscoe Holder, was a painter and dancer, and his uncle, Geoffrey Holder, was a renowned actor and choreographer.

Holder trained in ballet from a young age and moved to New York City, where he studied at the High School of Performing Arts. He became one of the most iconic dancers of the Joffrey Ballet, performing in works by Jerome Robbins, Alvin Ailey, and Agnes de Mille. His artistry extended beyond dance—he was also a costume designer, playwright, and cabaret singer.

Sadly, Holder passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 75, in London, England. His legacy lives on through his diverse artistic contributions and his impact on the dance world.

Dada Masilo,

Dada Masilo was a South African dancer and choreographer, known for her bold reinterpretations of classical ballets infused with African dance elements. Born on February 21, 1985, in Soweto, she trained in both classical ballet and contemporary dance, developing a unique, high-energy style that challenged traditional narratives.

Masilo gained international recognition for her groundbreaking adaptations of Swan Lake, Giselle, Carmen, and The Rite of Spring, which incorporated themes of gender, race, and social justice. She performed and collaborated with renowned artists such as William Kentridge, Ann Masina, and Gregory Maqoma.

Tragically, she passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 39, after a brief illness. Her legacy continues to inspire dancers and choreographers worldwide.

Bruce Forsyth,

Bruce Forsyth was a legendary British entertainer, television presenter, comedian, singer, and dancer, whose career spanned over 75 years. Born on February 22, 1928, in Edmonton, England, he became a household name through his work on Sunday Night at the London Palladium in the late 1950s.

Forsyth was best known for hosting iconic game shows such as The Generation Game, Play Your Cards Right, The Price Is Right, and You Bet!. He later co-hosted Strictly Come Dancing from 2004 to 2013, where his signature phrase, "Nice to see you, to see you... Nice!", became a beloved catchphrase.

He was knighted in 2011 for his contributions to entertainment and charity, and in 2012, Guinness World Records recognized him for having the longest television career for a male entertainer. Forsyth passed away on August 18, 2017, at the age of 89 leaving behind a legacy of charm, wit, and showmanship.

Judith Jamison,

Judith Jamison was an American dancer, choreographer, and artistic director, best known for her work with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Born on May 10, 1943, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she trained in ballet and modern dance before joining Ailey’s company in 1965. She quickly became one of its most celebrated performers, starring in iconic works like Cry and Revelations2.

After Alvin Ailey’s passing in 1989, Jamison became the company’s artistic director, leading it until 2011 and expanding its global influence. She received numerous honors, including the Kennedy Center Honors (1999) and the National Medal of Arts (2001)2.

Jamison passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 81, leaving behind a lasting legacy in modern dance

George Lee,

George Lee was a Chinese-American ballet dancer, best known as the first Asian dancer in the New York City Ballet. Born George Li on February 18, 1935, in Hong Kong, he trained in ballet under his mother, who was of Polish descent. His early life was marked by hardship—after his father’s death, he fled to the Philippines as a refugee before immigrating to the United States in 1951.

Lee studied at the School of American Ballet and was mentored by André Eglevsky, a principal dancer at the New York City Ballet. In 1954, he performed in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, dancing the Chinese Tea variation. He later appeared in Gene Kelly’s Broadway production of Flower Drum Song in 1958.

After retiring from ballet in 1980, Lee worked as a blackjack dealer in Las Vegas for nearly 40 years. His story was rediscovered in 2024 through the documentary Ten Times Better, which highlighted his pioneering role in ballet and the challenges he faced as an Asian dancer.

Lee passed away on April 20, 2025, at the age of 902. His legacy as a trailblazer in dance continues to be celebrated.

Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux 

Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux was a French ballet dancer, choreographer, and instructor, known for his contributions to both the Paris Opera Ballet and the New York City Ballet. Born on April 9, 1943, in Bourg-en-Bresse, France, he joined the Paris Opera Ballet at the age of 14 and became a danseur étoile at 21.

Under the direction of George Balanchine, Bonnefoux became a principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, where he performed in works by Jerome Robbins, Maurice Béjart, and Roland Petit. He later transitioned into teaching and artistic direction, serving as the artistic director of the Charlotte Ballet and the Chautauqua Institution.

Bonnefoux passed away on April 15, 2025, at the age of 82. His legacy continues through his contributions to ballet education and choreography.

Len Goodman,

Len Goodman was an English ballroom dancer, dance teacher, and television personality, best known as the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing (UK) from 2004 to 2016 and Dancing with the Stars (US) from 2005 to 2022.

Born on April 25, 1944, in Farnborough, England, Goodman started dancing at 19 after a doctor recommended it as therapy for a foot injury. He went on to win British Championships at Blackpool before retiring from competitive dance.

He was known for his witty critiques, signature phrases like "It's a ten from Len!", and his warm yet firm judging style. Outside of television, he ran a ballroom dance school in Dartford, Kent.

Goodman passed away on April 22, 2023, at the age of 78, due to bone cancer. His legacy in dance and entertainment remains strong, with tributes pouring in from fellow judges, dancers, and fans worldwide.

Mitzi Gaynor,

Mitzi Gaynor was an American actress, singer, and dancer, best known for her role in the 1958 film South Pacific. She was born Francesca Marlene de Czanyi von Gerber on September 4, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, and had a successful career in Hollywood musicals1. Some of her notable films include There's No Business Like Show Business (1954) and The Birds and the Bees (1956). She passed away on October 17, 2024, at the age of 93

Bojan Spassoff,

Bojan Spassoff is a well-known figure in the ballet world, having served as the President and Director of The Rock School for Dance Education for over three decades. He played a crucial role in shaping the careers of many ballet stars and helped transform The Rock School into an internationally recognized institution2.

Spassoff retired from his full-time role in 2021 but continued to contribute as Director Emeritus while a successor was found. His leadership was instrumental in expanding the school, refining its training methods, and making ballet education more accessible and supportive for young dancers.

Vladimir Andreyevich Shklyarov,

Vladimir Andreyevich Shklyarov was a renowned Russian ballet dancer, born on February 9, 1985, in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg). He trained at the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet and became a principal dancer at the Mariinsky Ballet. He also performed as a guest principal with the Bavarian State Ballet and The Royal Ballet.

Sadly, Shklyarov passed away on November 16, 2024, at the age of 39, after falling from the fifth floor of an apartment building in Saint Petersburg2. Reports suggest the fall was accidental, though different accounts exist regarding the circumstances3. His death was a significant loss to the ballet world, and he was widely mourned by colleagues and admirers.

Alla Osipenko,

Alla Yevgenyevna Osipenko (June 16, 1932 – May 12, 2025) was a celebrated Soviet and Russian ballerina and ballet teacher. She trained at the Leningrad Choreographic School (now the Vaganova Academy) and became a prima ballerina of the Kirov Ballet in 1954.

Osipenko was known for her expressive artistry and technical brilliance. She danced iconic roles in Swan Lake, La Bayadère, The Nutcracker, Spartak, and many others. She was a preferred partner of legendary dancers like Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Yuri Soloviev.

Her career was deeply affected when Nureyev defected to the West in 1961—she was subsequently blocked from international touring. She later danced with Leonid Yacobson’s Ballet and Boris Eifman’s company, becoming a pioneer in promoting Eifman’s work.

After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, she moved to the United States in 1995, working as a ballet coach with the Hartford Ballet before returning to Saint Petersburg in 2000 to coach the Mikhailovsky Ballet.

She passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most expressive ballerinas of her generation.

Caroline Miller,

Caroline Miller OBE – She was the CEO of Birmingham Royal Ballet and a highly influential figure in the UK and international dance scene. She passed away on December 15, 2024, after a long illness. She was known for her contributions to the arts, including her leadership at Dance UK andOrlando Ballet before joining BRB in 2018

Yuri Grigorovich,

Yuri Nikolayevich Grigorovich (January 2, 1927 – May 19, 2025) was a legendary Soviet and Russian ballet dancer, choreographer, and artistic director. He dominated Russian ballet for three decades, particularly as the artistic director of the Bolshoi Ballet from 1964 to 1995.

Grigorovich was known for his grand, dramatic productions, including Spartacus, Ivan the Terrible, The Nutcracker, and Romeo and Juliet. His choreography emphasized powerful male roles, athleticism, and expressive storytelling, reshaping Soviet ballet.

He passed away at the age of 98, and his farewell ceremony at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow was attended by leading figures from the Russian arts world. His influence on ballet remains profound, and his works continue to be performed worldwide.

Valery Panov,

Valery Matveevich Panov (March 12, 1938 – June 3, 2025) was a celebrated Soviet-born ballet dancer and choreographer. He trained at the Vaganova Academy in Leningrad and performed with the Kirov Ballet from 1964 to 1972.

Panov and his wife, Galina Panova, made headlines in 1972 when they applied for exit visas to emigrate to Israel. Their request led to their expulsion from the Kirov Ballet, imprisonment, and a two-year ban from taking ballet classes. After international pressure, they were finally allowed to leave the Soviet Union in 1974.

In Israel, Panov danced with the Bathsheva and Bat-Dor dance companies before becoming a guest choreographer and principal dancer with the Berlin Opera Ballet from 1977 to 1983. He later worked with ballet companies across Europe and North America, staging productions such as Cinderella, The Rite of Spring, The Idiot, and War and Peace.

Panov founded the Ashdod Art Centre in 1993 and later established the Panov Ballet Theatre in 1998, both in Israel. He passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of artistic innovation and resilience.

 

 

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