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Marie Taglioni
The ballet body has been in flux since the first recognized ballerina, Marie Taglioni, took up the royal court tradition in the early 19th century. Taglioni, who was described by ballet historian and former dancer Jennifer Homans in her book Apollo’s Angels as “poorly proportioned,” was the first of many to find untold artistic freedom in her physical shortcomings. -
Suzanne Farrell
The most glaring example of Balanchine’s inability to depersonalize his profession is the 1969 dismissal of 23-year-old Suzanne Farrell, the rising star who chose not to marry her 55-year-old mentor. Another young protégé, Gelsey Kirkland, went public in her condemnation of “Mr. B.” as a despot. In her autobiography, Dancing on My Grave, she implied that he was ultimately responsible for the anorexia, bulimia and addiction that nearly killed her. -
Current Dance Age
The desire to be thin is still an issue in the current dance world, but there is increasing awareness to address these issues as evidenced by wellness and nutrition programs available in many professional companies.