Léonide Fyodorovich Massine

Born:

August 9, 1896 (O.S. July 28), Moscow, Russian Empire

Died:

March 15, 1979, Cologne, West Germany

Nationality:

Russian (later naturalized American)

Profession(s):

Ballet Dancer, Choreographer, Director

Early Life and Education

• Massine initially studied acting at the Imperial School of Moscow.
• He began ballet training somewhat later than many dancers, but displayed exceptional talent.
• Sergei Diaghilev recognized Massine's potential and took him under his wing.

Career and Major Achievements

• Became a principal dancer and choreographer with the Ballets Russes under Diaghilev.
• Developed a distinctive choreographic style blending classical ballet with character dance and modern influences.
• Collaborated with leading composers, artists, and designers, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Igor Stravinsky.
• His association with the Ballets Russes defined much of his early career and established his international reputation.
• Massine also created works for other major ballet companies, including the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo.
• He appeared in several films as both a dancer and actor.

Notable Works

• Le Tricorne (1919): A landmark ballet incorporating Spanish folk elements.
• Parade (1917): A controversial and influential work with music by Erik Satie and sets by Pablo Picasso.
• La Boutique Fantasque (1919): A popular ballet based on themes by Ottorino Respighi.
• Les Présages (1933): A symphonic ballet set to Tchaikovsky's Fifth Symphony.
• Choreartium (1933): Another symphonic ballet, using music of Brahms.
• Gaîté Parisienne (1938): A lighthearted and popular ballet.

Filmography

Legacy and Impact

Léonide Massine was a pivotal figure in 20th-century ballet, renowned for his innovative choreography, dramatic flair, and collaborative spirit. His contributions helped to redefine ballet's possibilities and left a lasting mark on dance history. This aliosha massine biography details his prolific career and far-reaching influence.

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