George Balanchine

Choreographer of 'The Nutcracker'

George Balanchine - Choreographer of 'The Nutcracker'
Born

January 22nd, 1904
121 years ago

Died

April 30th, 1983
42 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent choreographer in ballet, created many influential works that shaped modern dance. Co-founded the New York City Ballet and served as its artistic director. Developed a unique style integrating classical ballet with contemporary themes. Worked with composers like Igor Stravinsky and Leonard Bernstein to create innovative ballets. 'The Nutcracker' remains one of the most performed ballets worldwide, and his other significant works include 'Apollo' and 'Serenade'.

Founded the New York City Ballet

Choreographed 'The Nutcracker'

Developed 'Serenade' and 'Apollo'

Other People Born on January 22nd

William Kidd

Scottish pirate hunter and privateer
Born
January 22nd, 1645 380 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1701 324 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1645 in Scotland, served as a sailor and privateer. Gained notoriety during the late 17th century while undertaking missions to combat piracy. Commanded the adventure ship 'Lauretta' and was granted a privateering commission by the British government. Later faced charges of piracy himself. Captured in 1699, tried, and hanged in 1701. His story contributed to legends surrounding piracy and privateering in the Caribbean.

Continue Reading

Ernst Busch

German actor and singer, performed in "Kuhle Wampe"
Born
January 22nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1945 80 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1900, this individual gained recognition as an actor and singer in Germany. The artistic career began in the Weimar Republic and spanned across several decades, notably working in film and theater. One of the most significant works was the film "Kuhle Wampe" in 1932, which exemplified the political atmosphere of the time. Throughout the career, engagements included various prominent performing arts institutions. Later years saw involvement in both the film and singing spheres, often reflecting the socio-political dynamics of post-war Germany. Contributions to the cultural landscape continued until the end of the performing career.

Continue Reading

Yuri Chesnokov

Volleyball player and coach, 1980 Olympic gold
Born
January 22nd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old

Competed in volleyball at an elite level, contributing significantly to the sport. Achieved a notable career spanning both playing and coaching phases. Played for the Soviet Union team, securing a gold medal at the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. Transitioned to coaching and led successful training programs, contributing to the development of future volleyball talents. Involved in international competitions and served as a mentor for various teams, sharing expertise gained from competitive play.

Continue Reading

Luigi Simoni

Italian football manager and player
Born
January 22nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1939, a career in football began as a player, primarily with several Italian clubs. Transitioning to management, led several teams in Serie A, achieving notable success. Managed Inter Milan and won the Coppa Italia in 2000, securing a place in the hearts of fans. Also led teams like Napoli and Salernitana, showcasing tactical knowledge and leadership in Italian football.

Continue Reading

Daniel Camargo Barbosa

Colombian serial killer involved in many murders
Born
January 22nd, 1930 95 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 64 years old

Active from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, this individual committed a series of murders in Colombia, targeting young girls. After being caught in 1980, he confessed to the killings and was sentenced to imprisonment. Following a brief release, he continued his criminal activities. Suspicions and investigations arose around his movements, leading to further scrutiny of his actions. The horrific nature of the crimes led to widespread media attention and public fear, solidifying this individual’s notoriety in the annals of criminal history.

Continue Reading

Alojz Uran

Slovenian archbishop and church leader
Born
January 22nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1945, an influential Slovenian archbishop served in various ecclesiastical roles within the Roman Catholic Church. Ordained as a priest in 1972, held numerous positions within the Slovenian church hierarchy. Played a significant role in the revitalization of the church in Slovenia following the fall of communism. Contributed to ecumenical dialogue and addressed social issues within the community. In 2008, appointed as the Archbishop of Ljubljana, overseeing the spiritual and administrative areas of the archdiocese.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 30th

Gordon Scott

American actor, Tarzan films star
Born
August 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 80 years old

An American actor gained prominence in the 1950s, primarily starring in a series of Tarzan films. Modeled as a bodybuilder, built a reputation for portraying the character in a muscular manner. His performances included 'Tarzan's Fight for Life' and 'Tarzan the Magnificent', which solidified his association with the iconic role. Beyond Tarzan, appeared in various adventure films and collaborated with several notable directors. Transitioned to television with guest roles and was involved in modeling during the 1960s. Retired in the 1970s and remained an influential figure in the realm of adventure cinema.

Continue Reading

Charlotte von Mahlsdorf

German philanthropist, Gründerzeit Museum founder
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2002 23 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the preservation of Berlin's historical artifacts, operated the Gründerzeit Museum which showcased items from the Gründerzeit period. Played a significant role in promoting cultural history and heritage, particularly during a time of political upheaval in East Germany. Actively engaged in the LGBTQ community and served as a symbol of resilience against oppression.

Continue Reading

Phil Rasmussen

American lieutenant and pilot
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

An American lieutenant and pilot served in the United States Air Force. Participated in the Vietnam War as a fighter pilot, flying missions in F-4 Phantom jets. Completed numerous combat flights and earned recognition for bravery and skill in challenging conditions. After military service, contributed to the aviation community through training and mentorship, sharing expertise with future generations of pilots.

Continue Reading

Charles

Austrian commander and duke of Teschen
Born
1771 254 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1847 178 years ago — 76 years old

A commander in the Austrian army and a duke, significantly contributed to military efforts during the Napoleonic Wars. Served as governor of various territories and engaged in strategic military planning. His leadership played a role in several key battles, particularly during the campaigns against Napoleon's forces. Oversaw military reorganizations that had lasting impacts on the Austrian military structure.

Continue Reading

Possum Bourne

Race Car Driver, Bathurst 1000 Champion
Born
1956 69 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2003 22 years ago — 47 years old

Possum Bourne was a race car driver from New Zealand. Active primarily in the 1990s and early 2000s, Bourne participated extensively in rallying and achieved notable success in the sport. He competed in the World Rally Championship representing New Zealand. His talent in rally car racing was highlighted by multiple victories in the prestigious Rally New Zealand. Bourne became a celebrated figure in the motorsport community, known for his driving skill and competitive spirit. He had a successful career in the Australian Rally Championship, where he secured multiple titles. Bourne tragically died in 2003 following an accident.

Continue Reading

Otto Jespersen

Danish linguist and language reformer
Born
1860 165 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1943 82 years ago — 83 years old

Contributions included extensive work in the field of linguistics, focusing on the development of the English language and the theory of language change. Engaged in significant analysis of irregular verbs and the process of grammar. Published numerous influential texts, including 'Growth and Structure of the English Language' and 'Language: Its Nature, Development, and Origin'. Participated actively in the language reform movement for Danish.

Continue Reading