Manuel Legris is a French ballet dancer and former principal dancer with the Paris Opera Ballet and the Vienna State Opera Ballet. He was born in France in 1964 and began his dance training at the age of ten.
Legris joined the Paris Opera Ballet in 1986 and quickly rose through the ranks to become a principal dancer in 1989. He was known for his powerful technique, elegant style, and ability to convey emotion through his performances.
During his time with the Paris Opera Ballet, Legris danced many of the company's most iconic roles, including Romeo in "Romeo and Juliet," Prince Siegfried in "Swan Lake," and Albrecht in "Giselle." He also collaborated with many of the world's most renowned choreographers, including Rudolf Nureyev, George Balanchine, and William Forsythe.
In 2006, Legris retired from dancing and became the artistic director of the Vienna State Opera Ballet, a position he held until 2014. During his tenure, he worked to revitalize the company and bring a new level of artistic excellence to its productions. He also commissioned new works from contemporary choreographers and collaborated with musicians and artists to create innovative and exciting performances.
Legris has been recognized for his contributions to the world of ballet with numerous awards and honors, including the title of Chevalier of the Legion of Honour in France and the title of Kammersänger in Austria. He has also served as a judge and mentor on several international dance competitions and has been a sought-after guest teacher and choreographer around the world.
In addition to his work in ballet, Legris is also a dedicated philanthropist and has worked to raise awareness and support for numerous charitable causes. He is a UNICEF Ambassador and has worked to promote children's rights and education around the world.
Manuel Legris' legacy as a ballet dancer and artistic director is a testament to his unwavering dedication to excellence and his passion for the art form. His contributions to the world of ballet have been immense, and he continues to inspire new generations of dancers and artists with his creativity, vision, and talent.
