Anna Pavlova

In the Beginning… Anna was born on January 31, 1881 in St. Petersburg, Russia. Her father had a Jewish background and died when Anna was two. Her mother was poor, but wanted more for her daughter.

Important milestones At age ten Anna entered the Imperial Ballet School. She became a prima ballerina in 1906. Anna began independent tours around the world during 1914. In 1918, she created her only choreographic endeavour called “Autumn Leaves.”

Contributions to Society She was a missionary for her art, giving a vast number of people their introduction to ballet. Anna had a passion for ethnic dances from around the world. Some of her favorites were Polish, Russian, and Mexican.

Something you may not know… Anna Pavlova had a home for Russian refugee orphans in Paris in 1920.

Anna’s Beliefs “God gives talent. Work transforms talent into genius.” “To follow without halt, one aim; there is the secret of success. And success? What is it? I do not find it in the applause of the theater. It lies rather in the satisfaction of accomplishment.” Others said, “Her quality was, above all, the powerful and elusive one of true glamour.”

Last Moments Anna Pavlova died of pneumonia in the Netherlands in 1931. The Pavlova School of Classical Ballet was opened in her honor in 1981 and closed in 2000. [Last words of Anna Pavlova] "Get my swan costume ready." Then "Play that last measure softly."

References http://womenshistory.about.com/library/bio/blbio-anna-pavlova.htm http://www.britannica.com/eb/article- http://www.tte.nl/bn/pavlova