Maria Tallchief
Maria Tallchief, a trailblazing Native American ballerina, revolutionized ballet with her passionate dancing and became a renowned prima ballerina.
Dancer
January 24, 1925
April 11, 2013
88
Maria Tallchief, the United States’ first major prima ballerina, transformed the world of ballet with her passionate performances and collaboration with George Balanchine. She gained fame and recognition for her groundbreaking 1949 role in The Firebird, which solidified her status as a leading dancer. Tallchief played a significant role in popularizing ballet in the United States and representing the nation on the international stage. Her other notable works and accomplishments include performances in The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, as well as receiving a Kennedy Center Honor. As a trailblazer for Native Americans in ballet, Maria Tallchief’s legacy continued even after her passing in 2013.