Vaslav Nijinsky
12 March 1889 – 8 April 1950
Vaslav Nijinsky was a Russian ballet dancer and choreographer of Polish descent, widely regarded as one of the greatest male dancers of the early 20th century. A star of Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, he was celebrated for his extraordinary elevation and dramatic intensity, and he choreographed groundbreaking works including The Rite of Spring. His performing career was cut short in 1919 when he was diagnosed with schizophrenia, and he spent much of the rest of his life in psychiatric care.
Lived at the same time
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Life events
Vaslav Nijinsky was born in Kiev, then part of the Russian Empire, to Polish dancer parents.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgHe began formal ballet training at the prestigious Imperial Theatrical School.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgAfter completing his training he became a member of the Mariinsky Theatre's Imperial Ballet.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgHe became a leading dancer of Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes at its Paris debut.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgHis first choreographic work premiered in Paris and provoked controversy for its sensual style.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgFollowing his marriage, Diaghilev dismissed him from the company.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgHis radical choreography for Stravinsky's score premiered in Paris and caused a famous near-riot.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgHe married the Hungarian aristocrat Romola de Pulszky while touring in South America.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgAfter his final public dance performance he was diagnosed with schizophrenia and largely withdrew from professional life.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgNijinsky died in London at the age of 61; his remains were later moved to Montmartre Cemetery in Paris.
Source: en.wikipedia.org