Photo: Hurok Concerts (U.S.) · License: Public domain · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Margot Fonteyn
Principal Dancer
Born May 18, 1919 in Reigate, United Kingdom (1919–1991)·d. February 21, 1991 in Panama City, Panama (aged 72)
Ballet
Dame Margaret Evelyn de Arias DBE, known by the stage name Margot Fonteyn, was an English ballerina. She spent her entire career as a dancer with the Sadler's Wells Ballet Company, now known as the Royal Ballet, eventually being appointed prima ballerina assoluta of the company by Queen Elizabeth II.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 4.0
6 Signature Roles3 Principal Houses
Spotlight
Career Trajectory
Margot Fonteyn rose from the Vic-Wells Ballet in the 1930s to become the preeminent classical ballerina of her era, her interpretations of the Petipa-Ivanov repertoire marked by crystalline technique and profound musicality. Her legendary partnership with Rudolf Nureyev beginning in 1965 redefined the possibilities of classical ballet and extended her career into her fifties, establishing her as a cultural icon who transcended dance to become a symbol of artistic excellence and human resilience.
Career Highlight
First British ballerina to achieve international stardom; created the modern template for the prima ballerina assoluta through her legendary partnership with Rudolf Nureyev, beginning with their 1965 Giselle at the Royal Opera House
At a Glance
- Voice
- Principal Dancer
- Nationality
- United Kingdom
- Born
- 1919 · Reigate, United Kingdom
- Active since
- 1965
Training & Education
Royal Ballet School
Principal Houses
Engagements
Verified past & upcoming performances
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Career Arc
A chronological journey through key moments
1919Born in Reigate, United Kingdom
1965First British ballerina to achieve international stardom; created the modern template for the prima ballerina assoluta through her legendary partnership with Rudolf Nureyev, beginning with their 1965 Giselle at the Royal Opera House
1991Died in Panama City, Panama
Available Performances
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