Dance World

Margot Fonteyn(1919-1991)

Her real name was Peggy Hookham. Studied ballet with George Goncharov in Shanghai, Vera Volkova, Seraphine Astafieva, and Sadler's Wells Ballet School, (in England). Joined the Vic-Wells Ballet, (which became Sadler's Wells Ballet which became the Royal Ballet), in 1934, made soloist the same year. Became a freelance dancer in 1959, attached to no particular company.

Danced as a guest artist with many ballets, and frequently with the Royal Ballet. Partnered many men including Rudolf Nureyev. Appeared in numerous ballets with the Royal Ballet, had lead roles in such ballets as Giselle, The Sleeping Beauty, and Odine. Subject of many books. Wrote Margot Fonteyn: Autobiography Created DBE, (title "Dame"), in 1954.