Maurice Béjart
Choreographer of The Rite of Spring
A prominent dancer, choreographer, and director, this individual significantly influenced modern ballet and contemporary dance. Founded the Béjart Ballet Lausanne in 1987, establishing a platform for innovative dance. Created numerous choreographies, including a renowned version of Igor Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring. Developed a unique style that combined classic ballet techniques with modern elements, showcasing the expressive potential of dance.
Founded Béjart Ballet Lausanne
Choreographed The Rite of Spring
Revived various classic ballets
Other People Born on January 1st
Christine Lagarde
Managing Director of IMF
Born
January 1st, 1956 69 years ago
A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund from 2011 to 2021. Before joining the IMF, held the position of Minister of Economic Affairs, Finance and Employment in France. Played a crucial role in global economic policies, particularly during the Eurozone crisis. Contributed to discussions on international finance and monetary policies at various global forums.
Continue ReadingRoman Totenberg
Violinist and renowned educator
Born
January 1st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 101 years old
Born in Poland, a significant violinist and educator contributed extensively to the world of classical music. Relocated to the United States, served on the faculty of prestigious institutions including Boston University and the New England Conservatory. Played a vital role in developing young violinists and shaped the American string tradition. Collaborated with many leading orchestras and musicians, highlighting the virtuosity and repertoire of the violin.
Continue ReadingFazal Ilahi Chaudhry
Politician and 5th President of Pakistan
Born
January 1st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1982 43 years ago — 78 years old
Chaudhry served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Pakistan. Held the office of President from 1973 to 1978. Took part in the establishment of the constitution of 1973, which defined the framework of governance in Pakistan. His career included significant contributions to law and political structure in the country, particularly within the context of the Islamic framework presented in legislative processes.
Continue ReadingValentina Cortese
Italian actress, Academy Award nominee
Born
January 1st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 96 years old
An accomplished actress, gained prominence in Italian cinema and later in international films. Starred in 'The Day of the Dolphin' and received an Academy Award nomination for 'The Balcony'. Also performed in theatrical productions, showcasing a range of dramatic talents. Worked with prominent directors such as Federico Fellini and Ingmar Bergman, appearing in significant works during the 20th century. Contributed to the film industry until the late 2000s, leaving a legacy in both Italian and global cinema.
Continue ReadingAudrey Wurdemann
American poet and author, won a Pulitzer
Born
January 1st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 49 years old
Born in 1911, a poet and author gained recognition for lyrical works that explored themes of nature and human emotion. Published several collections of poetry, with 'The Long Night' being particularly influential. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1945 for the collection 'The World is a Beautiful Place'. The writings contributed significantly to American literature during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Spanheim
Dutch theologian and academic
Born
January 1st, 1600 425 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1649 376 years ago — 49 years old
An influential theologian and academic, contributions spanned various areas of theology and philosophy. Spanheim served as a professor at the University of Leiden, where he significantly influenced theological discourse. His works often addressed issues of religious tolerance and the relationship between church and state. Writings emphasized the importance of reason in theology, contributing to the development of Protestant thought during the 17th century.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 22nd
Bob Avakian
Music producer and political activist
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2017 8 years ago — 98 years old
A prominent music producer, this individual was influential in the fusion of politics and music. He founded a music label and produced various artists who resonated with social and political themes. Through works that merged hip-hop with revolutionary ideas, this producer emphasized a strong critique of capitalism and imperialism. He contributed to the development of music that sought to inspire social change. His efforts extended beyond production, engaging in public speaking to advocate for his political beliefs and vision.
Continue ReadingJean Cione
American baseball player and pitcher
Born
June 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2010 15 years ago — 82 years old
This individual played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the Philadelphia Phillies. Debuting in 1949, contributions included a solid performance during the early years of the franchise. Although career statistics were modest, time spent in the league represented a significant commitment to the sport.
Continue ReadingOtto Hutter
Physiologist with significant contributions
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2020 5 years ago — 96 years old
Austrian-born British physiologist contributed extensively to the field of physiology, particularly in cardiovascular research. Worked on the mechanics of the heart and its regulation. Conducted research that enhanced the understanding of blood flow and circulation. Published numerous scientific papers and mentored many students throughout an academic career.
Continue ReadingDmitri Hvorostovsky
Opera singer acclaimed for Verdi roles
Born
October 16th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2017 8 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1962, this opera singer achieved international acclaim for powerful baritone performances. His career spanned multiple prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera. The singer's interpretations of Verdi characters established a significant presence in the opera world. He won the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition in 1989, which launched his illustrious career. Throughout his life, he balanced concert performances with opera appearances, maintaining a strong presence in both arenas. His work also included collaborations with prominent orchestras and a number of celebrated albums, showcasing a repertoire rich in Russian and Italian opera.
Continue ReadingStu Ungar
Professional poker player and champion
Born
1953 72 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1998 27 years ago — 45 years old
A professional poker player achieved significant success in the game, winning the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event three times. First victory came in 1980, followed by wins in 1981 and 1997, establishing a legacy in competitive poker. Demonstrated an exceptional talent for the game, sometimes drawing comparisons to chess grandmasters because of strategic thinking. Also excelled in gin rummy before turning to poker, leaving a mark on both card games. His life was marked by personal struggles, particularly with addiction, which ultimately affected career longevity and health.
Continue ReadingSena Jurinac
Soprano opera singer and recording artist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2011 14 years ago — 90 years old
Born in Bosnia, a celebrated soprano gained prominence for performances at renowned opera houses, including the Vienna State Opera and the Met. Worked extensively in both concert and operatic repertoire, achieving a notable career in the mid-20th century. Recorded numerous works, adding to a substantial discography that showcased a wide range of operatic roles. Contributed significantly to the art of opera interpretation and was a prominent figure in the 1950s and 1960s.
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