December 9
Born Today:
Joseph Pilates
Did you know that Joseph Pilates (1883-1967) earned his living as a professional boxer, circus performer and self-defense trainer for policemen? He developed his mat exercises while in an English internment camp during World War I and is responsible for our love of core abdominal strength.
Also Born Today: Ballet dancer Mikhail Mordkin (1880-1944) left his post as ballet master at the Bolshoi Ballet School to perform with the Ballets Russes in 1909 and eventually made his way to the United States. He helped pave the way for professional ballet companies to flourish in the US. Ukrainian dancer/choreographer Remziye Tarsinova (1926-2021) was also a ballet master.
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Movie: Words and Music released in 1948 and A Chorus Line in 1985.
Broadway Premiere: Swing! in 1999