Doris Humphrey
Dancer and choreographer of modern dance
A leading figure in modern dance, created significant works that shaped the genre. Developed the technique of fall and recovery, emphasizing the use of gravity in movement. Co-founded the Humphrey-Weidman Company and was a pivotal influence in the establishment of modern dance as an art form. Served as a teacher and mentor to many dancers, contributing to the development of future generations in the field.
Choreographed 'The Shakers'
Helped establish the Humphrey-Weidman Company
Other People Born on October 17th
Maica García Godoy
Spanish water polo player and Olympian
Born
October 17th, 1990 35 years ago
Competed in water polo at the highest level, participating in international competitions and earning recognition. Secured a silver medal at the 2013 World Aquatics Championships and participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro. Also contributed to club-level success in competitions in Spain, showcasing skills and strategy in the water polo arena.
Continue ReadingJake DeBrusk
Ice hockey player with Boston Bruins
Born
October 17th, 1996 29 years ago
Debuted in the NHL with the Boston Bruins, contributing as a left winger. Achieved significant success during playoff runs and consistently displayed offensive skills. Played a crucial role in key games, demonstrating a combination of speed and scoring ability, while also participating in various community initiatives focused on youth hockey development.
Continue ReadingJacob Artist
Actor in Glee and American Idol
Born
October 17th, 1992 33 years ago
An American actor, singer, and dancer. Rose to prominence through a role in the television series Glee, portraying the character Jake Puckerman. Participated in the 12th season of American Idol, showcasing vocal talent. Engaged in various performances in theater and music, contributing to artistic productions throughout the career.
Continue ReadingVincent Poirier
French professional basketball player
Born
October 17th, 1993 32 years ago
Played professional basketball in Europe and the NBA. Began career in France before moving to the NBA. Played for the Philadelphia 76ers, contributing to the team's roster. Also represented the French national team in international competitions, showcasing talent on the global stage.
Continue ReadingRobert Williams III
Basketball player for Boston Celtics
Born
October 17th, 1997 28 years ago
An American basketball player, played as a center for the Boston Celtics in the NBA. Won the NBA Championship in 2022. Played college basketball at Texas A&M before being selected 27th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Celtics. Known for contributions on defense and shot-blocking abilities.
Continue ReadingPatrick Lambie
Rugby player; Springbok fly-half
Born
October 17th, 1990 35 years ago
Played as a fly-half for the South African national rugby team and was a key player for the Sharks in Super Rugby. Lambie made his debut for the Springboks in 2010 and participated in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. His versatility allowed him to play both fly-half and fullback positions, contributing significantly to the team's performance. Notable for his tactical kicking and defensive skills, he gained recognition for his ability to control the pace of the game.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 29th
Pelé
Brazilian football legend and actor
Born
October 23rd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2022 3 years ago — 82 years old
A Brazilian footballer, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. Played for Santos FC and the Brazil national team, contributing to a golden era in Brazilian football. Achieved international fame by winning three FIFA World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970. Also ventured into acting, appearing in the film 'Escape to Victory' alongside other famous footballers. After retirement, engaged in various charitable activities and became a global ambassador for football.
Continue ReadingJoseph Cornell
American sculptor and director of box sculptures
Born
December 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1972 53 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent American sculptor and filmmaker, focused on creating intricate box constructions and collages. Developed a unique artistic style that combined found objects, imagery, and poetic narratives. Directed several experimental films that explored themes of memory and nostalgia. His works often reflected an interest in childhood, dreams, and the passage of time, leading to a distinctive contribution to the field of assemblage art. Influenced by Surrealism, Cornell's pieces invite viewers to engage with the narratives he constructed.
Continue ReadingFreddie Hubbard
Jazz trumpet player and composer
Born
April 7th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2008 17 years ago — 70 years old
An influential jazz trumpet player and composer emerged in the 1960s, contributing significantly to the hard bop and avant-garde jazz movements. Collaborated with prominent musicians such as Art Davis, Wayne Shorter, and McCoy Tyner. Established a distinctive style characterized by bold melodic lines and advanced harmonic structures. Released several critically acclaimed albums, including 'Ready for Freddie' and 'Hub-Tones'. Active in both acoustic and electric jazz settings, Hubbard also participated in the jazz fusion genre during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingDon Marquis
American author and playwright
Born
July 29th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1937 88 years ago — 59 years old
An author and playwright who gained prominence in the early 20th century through contributions to literature and journalism. Marquis created the characters Archy and Mehitabel, which featured in his newspaper columns and were later compiled into books. The writings combined humor and social commentary, reflecting the era's sentiments. Marquis also published several volumes of poetry and plays, showcasing a range of styles and themes. His work was influential in American literary circles and continues to be referenced in studies of early American humor.
Continue ReadingPeggy Cummins
Irish actress in film and theater
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2017 8 years ago — 92 years old
Cummins commenced acting in the late 1940s, gaining recognition for performances in British cinema. Achievements include leading roles in films such as 'Gun Crazy' (1950) and 'Night Has a Thousand Eyes' (1948). Her work in theater also received critical acclaim, contributing to the performing arts in Ireland and the UK. Throughout a career spanning several decades, her talent engaged audiences, and she continued acting into her later years.
Continue ReadingOm Prakash Malhotra
Indian politician and governor
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a general in the Indian Army and later transitioned into politics. Held the position of the 25th Governor of Punjab. Involved in various initiatives regarding governance and military strategy during a significant period in India's history. Worked on issues related to state administration and public welfare, contributing to the political landscape of Punjab.
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