Born: 1869 (Paris, France)
Died: 1939 (Paris, France)
Biography:
Jeanne Marguerite Chasles, born on 4 September 1869 in Paris, was a French dancer and choreographer who made significant contributions to the world of dance during the Belle Époque period. She later became a renowned dance instructor at the National Conservatoire and a curator of dance history at the National Library of France. Her dedication to preserving and promoting the art of dance has had a lasting impact on the field.
Chasles began her dance training under the guidance of Madame Mariquita and made her debut at the Opéra-Comique in 1888 as a petit sujet. She quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the principal dancers, performing solo roles until 1910. Her talent and versatility allowed her to dance in various theaters, including the Gaîté Lyrique and the Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe. Throughout her career, she collaborated with renowned dancers such as Régina Badet, Aïda Boni, Luz Chavita, Cléo de Mérode, and Stacia Napierkowska, showcasing her ability to adapt to different styles and genres.
In addition to her dance career, Chasles also held important administrative positions in the dance world. She became the head of employment for the Opéra-Comique in 1898 and later took on the same role at the Gaîté Lyrique. In 1909, she was appointed as the Director of Dance at the Comédie-Française, solidifying her reputation as a respected figure in the industry. Her organizational skills and dedication to her craft earned her the position of ballet mistress at the Opéra-Comique in 1920, effectively passing on her knowledge and expertise to the next generation of dancers.
Chasles was not only a talented dancer and administrator but also a visionary choreographer. She brought a unique perspective to her work by incorporating historical materials from her personal collection of engravings and documents on dance. Her choreography for productions such as Quo Vadis at the Gaîté Lyrique in 1910 and Pénélope by Gabriel Fauré at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in 1913 showcased her ability to blend traditional techniques with innovative concepts. Chasles’ dedication to historical accuracy and her meticulous attention to detail in her choreography set her apart as a true artist.
In 1931, Chasles received recognition for her contributions to the arts when she was honored as a knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honour. This prestigious award acknowledged her significant impact on the world of dance and her dedication to preserving its history for future generations.
Jeanne Chasles passed away on 20 March 1939 in Paris, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence dancers and choreographers to this day. Her collection of historic engravings and materials on the history of dance, which she had meticulously curated throughout her life, was donated to the National Library of France after her death. Through her extraordinary career and her commitment to preserving the art of dance, Jeanne Chasles has become an iconic figure in the world of dance and a pioneer in women’s history.
Awards:
– Knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honour (1931)