Jacques d’Amboise

Jacques d’Amboise (1934-2021) was an acclaimed American ballet dancer and choreographer. He was born on July 28, 1934, in Dedham, Massachusetts, and became one of the leading figures in the world of dance during the 20th century. He is best known for his association with the New York City Ballet, where he had a distinguished career as both a principal dancer and a choreographer.

Key Aspects of Jacques d’Amboise’s Life and Contributions:

1. Dance Career: Jacques d’Amboise started studying dance at an early age and received formal training at the School of American Ballet, the official school of the New York City Ballet. He joined the New York City Ballet in 1950 and quickly rose through the ranks to become a principal dancer.
2. Artistic Collaboration: D’Amboise worked closely with the renowned choreographer George Balanchine, who was the co-founder of the New York City Ballet. Balanchine created many roles specifically for d’Amboise, and their artistic collaboration was highly acclaimed.
3. Notable Roles: D’Amboise was known for his technical prowess, athleticism, and charisma on stage. He was particularly celebrated for his performances in ballets like “Apollo,” “Stars and Stripes,” “Western Symphony,” and “Fancy Free.”
4. Choreography: In addition to his dancing career, d’Amboise also ventured into choreography. He created choreography for various dance companies, including the New York City Ballet and the National Dance Institute, an organization he founded to provide dance education to children.
5. Teaching and Education: Jacques d’Amboise was dedicated to dance education and teaching. He was a faculty member at the School of American Ballet and taught dance to aspiring young dancers. His passion for teaching and mentorship extended to his work with the National Dance Institute, where he made a significant impact on the lives of many children through the power of dance.
6. Awards and Recognition: D’Amboise received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the arts, including the Kennedy Center Honors in 1995 and the National Medal of Arts in 1998.

Jacques d’Amboise’s career left a profound impact on the world of ballet, and he is remembered as one of the greatest American dancers of his generation. His dedication to dance education and his efforts to make dance accessible to young people have also left a lasting legacy in the field of arts education. D’Amboise passed away on May 2, 2021, but his contributions to the world of dance continue to inspire generations of dancers and audiences alike.