March 15
Born Today:
Beto Pérez
Colombian-born Beto Pérez (1970-) created the exercise fitness program Zumba when he forgot his usual music for teaching an exercise class in the late 1990s. Instead, he used Salsa music he had with him and substituted salsa movement for his usual choreography. His classes became so popular that he decided to found the Zumba exercise corporation in the early 2000s. Since that time, Zumba has expanded worldwide and diversified to teach all ages and has a strong support system for instructors wishing to teach in person and online.
Also Born Today: Revered ballet teacher Ludmilla Schollar (1888-1978), along with her husband Anatole Vilzak (1896-1998) danced with the original Ballets Russes, and Schollar created roles in Carnaval (1910) and Jeux (1913). Dancer with the Royal Ballet, David Wall (1946-2013) became the youngest dancer to be promoted to the rank of principal dancer at the age of 21. Dancer Thommie Walsh (1950 - 2007) originated the role of Bobby in A Chorus Line (1975) and collaborated with Tommy Tune (1939-) on several award-winning shows, including My One and Only (1983).
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Movie: Funny Lady released in 1975
Broadway Premiere: My Fair Lady in 1956