Jean Dauberval (1742-1806)

Jean Dauberval (1742-1806), French ballet dancer and choreographer, who did much to forward the theories of Noverre, his teacher, and is known as the inventor of the comedy ballet. His best-known ballet, LA FILLE MAL GARDEE, first produced in 1786, is the oldest ballet still being performed. This ballet was the first to use the lives of the peasants as the plot. Among his best-known students were Charles-Louis Didelot, Jean Aumer and Sal Vigano. He was married to dancer Mlle. Theodore, a pupil of Lany.

(First published December 1991)

I'm so picky because I can't stand to watch bad ballet.