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Zina BethuneAmerican dancer, actress, choreographer and teacher
Date of Birth: 17.02.1945
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Zina Bethune: A Multifaceted Artist
- Film and Television
- Dance Education and Disability Outreach
- Broadway and Musicals
- Prima Ballerina and Choreographer
- Legacy
Zina Bethune: A Multifaceted Artist
Early Life and CareerBorn on February 17, 1945, in New York City, Zina Bethune is the daughter of William Charles Bethune and prominent actress Ivy Bethune. Despite being diagnosed with scoliosis at age 11 and lymphedema and hip dysplasia at 17, Bethune pursued a career in ballet at a young age. She began training at the School of American Ballet at the age of 6 and joined the New York City Ballet at 14.
Film and Television
Bethune's film debut came at age 11 with a small role in the soap opera "The Guiding Light." She gained recognition for her portrayal of Robin Lang in the series from 1956 to 1958. In 1960, she appeared as Anna Roosevelt in "Sunrise at Campobello." Bethune's breakthrough role came in Martin Scorsese's 1967 film "Who's That Knocking at My Door?," where she played The Girl opposite Harvey Keitel. She went on to star in numerous television shows, including "The Nurses," "Kraft Television Theatre," and "Santa Barbara."
Dance Education and Disability Outreach
Throughout her career, Bethune has been committed to working with children with disabilities. In 1980, she founded the Bethune Theatredanse, which later became the Los Angeles Theatre Center. In 1982, she launched the Dance Outreach program, which is now called Infinite Dreams. Today, Infinite Dreams serves thousands of disabled children in Southern California, providing them with dance instruction.
Broadway and Musicals
Bethune made her Broadway debut at age 11 in "The Most Happy Fella." She returned to Broadway in 1992 in "Grand Hotel," playing the role of Elizaveta Grushinskaya. Off-Broadway, she performed in productions of "Sweet Charity," "Oklahoma!," and "The Owl and the Pussycat." As a dancer and singer, Bethune has appeared in numerous musicals, including "Carnival," "Carousel," and "The Unsinkable Molly Brown."
Prima Ballerina and Choreographer
As a prima ballerina, Bethune has performed in iconic ballets such as "Swan Lake," "The Sleeping Beauty," and "Don Quixote." She has also choreographed over 50 plays, films, and ballets.
Legacy
Zina Bethune is a renowned artist who has left a lasting legacy in dance, theater, and film. Her unwavering determination has inspired others to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams. Her work with disabled children continues to enrich their lives and promote inclusivity in the arts.
