Charles-Louis Didelot (1767-1837)

Charles-Louis Didelot (1767-1837), born in Stockholm where he studied with his father at the Royal Theatre. He continued his studies in Paris and Bordeaux with Dauberval and Lany. He later studied with Noverre and Vertris. Didelot made his debut in London dancing for Noverre. He was a regular partner of Madeleine Guimard. In 1801 he was made ballet master in St. Petersburg, where he reorganized the system of ballet instruction. He returned to Paris in 1811 and returned to Russia in 1816 to continue his reforms.

(First published December 1991)

Tricks are what you pick up on Broadway. Technique is what you learn in class.