Maria Tallchief By Lauren Denison Jan 24, 1925 Date of Birth Dec 24, 1933 She moved to California for dance. Dec 24, 1940 She danced with Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Dec 24, 1942 She moved to New York City. Dec 24, 1946 She married George Balanchine. Dec 24, 1947 She became the first prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet. Dec 24, 1965 She retired from dancing Dec 24, 1978 Maria married her second husband, Henry "Buzz" Paschen in 1956. Dec 24, 1981 With her sister they founded Chicago City Ballet. Dec 24, 1996 She was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors for her contributions to American culture. Dec 24, 1999 She was awarded the National medal of Arts. Dec 24, 2005 she appeared in the documentary Ballet Russes. Apr 13, 2013 She died At 88 years old
