Spotlight on
Jerome Robbins
(1918 - 1998)
The New York City born Jerome Robbins was one of the most popular, imaginative, and impactful contemporary choreographers of the 20th century whose career became highly recognized and respected in American ballet, Broadway musicals, and Hollywood films. He won acclaim for his innovative, contemporary themes set within the traditional framework of classical dance.
The early years
Robbins family name was Rainowitz; his parents were Russian-Jewish immigrants who later changed the family name to Robbins. In 1936, after a short time as a chemistry student at New York University, Robbins began his dance career where he soon found himself in the chorus of numerous Broadway musicals. In 1940 he joined the American Ballet Theatre. In 1944, Robbins choreographed Fancy Free – his first and highly successful ballet. Fancy Free later became a successful Broadway musical, On the Town which included the talents of lyricists Betty Comden and Adolph Green. From the start of his career, Robbins’ work was noted for its theatrical sensibilities and effective treatment of blending contemporary dance with classical ballet.
Jerome Robbins
(1918 - 1998)
The New York City born Jerome Robbins was one of the most popular, imaginative, and impactful contemporary choreographers of the 20th century whose career became highly recognized and respected in American ballet, Broadway musicals, and Hollywood films. He won acclaim for his innovative, contemporary themes set within the traditional framework of classical dance.
The early years
Robbins family name was Rainowitz; his parents were Russian-Jewish immigrants who later changed the family name to Robbins. In 1936, after a short time as a chemistry student at New York University, Robbins began his dance career where he soon found himself in the chorus of numerous Broadway musicals. In 1940 he joined the American Ballet Theatre. In 1944, Robbins choreographed Fancy Free – his first and highly successful ballet. Fancy Free later became a successful Broadway musical, On the Town which included the talents of lyricists Betty Comden and Adolph Green. From the start of his career, Robbins’ work was noted for its theatrical sensibilities and effective treatment of blending contemporary dance with classical ballet.
