Erik Bruhn Danish dancer, choreographer, actor and author Date of Birth: 03.10.1928 Country: Denmark

Biography of Erik Bruun

Erik Belton Evers Bruun, a world-renowned Danish dancer, choreographer, director, actor, and author, was born on October 3, 1928, in Copenhagen, Denmark. He was the fourth child of Ernst Bruun and Elen Evers, and the first son. His parents got married shortly before his birth. At the age of nine, Erik joined the Royal Danish Ballet and made his debut in 1946 at the Royal Opera House in Copenhagen, dancing the role of Adonis in Harald Lander's ballet "Thorvaldsen". He became a permanent member of the company in 1947 at the age of eighteen.

Throughout his career, Bruun performed with various ballet companies around the world, including the New York City Ballet, Royal Ballet London, and the Paris Opera Ballet. He formed partnerships with renowned ballerinas such as Sonia Arova, Cynthia Gregory, Nora Kaye, Allegra Kent, Maria Tallchief, Natalia Makarova, Kirsten Simone, Nadia Nerina, and Carla Fracci.

In 1963, Bruun was honored with the title of "Knight of the Order of the Dannebrog," which recognized his significant contributions to the arts. He also received the Nijinsky Award in Paris a few years later.

Bruun had a successful international career, performing leading roles in ballets such as "Giselle," "Romeo and Juliet," and "Swan Lake." He was known for his dramatic and expressive performances, and his portrayal of Albert in "Giselle" alongside Dame Alicia Markova caused a sensation in New York in 1955.

Besides his performing career, Bruun also took on directing and leadership roles. He served as the artistic director of the Royal Swedish Opera and Ballet from 1967 to 1973 and the National Ballet of Canada from 1983 until his death.

Erik Bruun passed away on April 1, 1986, in Toronto at the age of 57. He was buried in Gentofte, at the Maribo Cemetery, near his childhood home. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Canadian culture and history, he posthumously received the annual award for exemplary achievements in the arts in 1987.