Serge Lifar

Ballet dancer and choreographer of 'Phèdre'

Serge Lifar - Performers & Entertainers born 1905
Born

1905
121 years ago

Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent ballet dancer and choreographer, this individual played a crucial role in the evolution of ballet in the 20th century. Born in Ukraine and later naturalized as a French citizen, contributions to ballet included the development of both classical and modern styles. The person served as the principal dancer at the Paris Opera Ballet and became the ballet master, where significant choreography emerged. Collaborations with influential composers and artists led to the creation of notable works that shaped ballet performance.

Choreographed 'Phèdre'

Served as a ballet master at the Paris Opera Ballet

Contributed to modern ballet techniques

Other People Who Died on December 15th

William Proxmire

American politician and journalist
Born
November 11th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2005 20 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1957 to 1989. Known for his persistent efforts to reduce government waste and spending. Utilized the Golden Fleece Award to highlight wasteful government projects. Proxmire was also a member of the U.S. Army during World War II and engaged in journalism after the war. Advocated for various social issues throughout his political career.

Continue Reading

Keith Arbuthnott

Scottish soldier and peer
Born
August 21st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1966 59 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1897, served in the British Army during World War I and World War II. Advanced to the rank of Major General. Involved in military operations with notable leadership during key campaigns. Held the title of 15th Viscount of Arbuthnott.

Continue Reading

Fats Waller

Pianist and composer of 'Ain't Misbehavin''
Born
May 21st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1943 82 years ago — 39 years old

An influential American pianist and composer emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, contributing significantly to the jazz genre. Combining humor and virtuosity, played in numerous nightclubs in New York City. Composed memorable pieces, many of which became standards in jazz repertoire. Gained recognition for performances both in person and on radio broadcasts, showcasing a playful style that blended elements of stride piano with popular music. Became a prominent figure in Harlem's music scene and influenced countless musicians.

Continue Reading

Joan Fontaine

Academy Award-winning actress
Born
October 22nd, 1917 108 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 96 years old

An actress with a significant career in film, achieved prominence in the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller 'Rebecca' and the suspenseful 'Suspicion', for which received an Academy Award for Best Actress. Recognized for her roles in both drama and romance, with appearances in 'Jane Eyre' and 'The Constant Nymph'. Her performances displayed a blend of vulnerability and strength, contributing to her long-lasting legacy in Hollywood.

Continue Reading

Heinz Wolff

Physiologist and engineer, Wolff's Periodic Table
Born
April 29th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old

A physiologist and engineer, contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and biomedical engineering. Served as a professor at Brunel University in London and was a prominent figure in promoting science education through television programs. Developed the Wolff's Periodic Table as a tool in psychophysics and engineering. His work focused on the relationship between physiology and engineering principles.

Continue Reading

Chill Wills

American actor and voice artist
Born
July 18th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1978 47 years ago — 76 years old

An American actor and voice artist who gained recognition in the film industry. Featured prominently in the 1956 film 'Giant' alongside Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson. Provided the voice for the character of the Narrator in the Disney animated classic 'The Jungle Book'. Had a successful career in both live-action and voice roles, contributing to various television shows and films throughout the 20th century. Served as a member of the U.S. Army during World War II, which also shaped future projects.

Continue Reading