Antoine August Bournonville
- Born:
- August 21, 1805, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Died:
- November 30, 1879, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Nationality:
- Danish
- Profession(s):
- Ballet Master, Choreographer, Dancer
Early Life and Education
- Son of Antoine Bournonville, a French dancer and choreographer.
- Received early ballet training from his father and later from Vincenzo Galeotti.
- Studied in Paris with Auguste Vestris, absorbing the French ballet technique.
Career and Major Achievements
- Appointed ballet master at the Royal Danish Ballet in 1829, a position he held for many years (with interruptions).
- Developed a distinct ballet style, emphasizing lightness, speed, and dramatic storytelling.
- Known for his choreographic method and detailed notation of dances, preserving his works.
- August Bournonville passage created a unique blend of French technique and Danish sensibility in ballet.
- Reintroduced male dancers as significant characters in ballet, breaking from contemporary trends.
Notable Works
- Choreography:
- La Sylphide (1836, revised version of the original French ballet)
- Napoli (1842)
- Konservatoriet (1849)
- Le Corsaire (1856, Copenhagen production)
- A Folk Tale (1854)
- Writings:
- My Theatre Life (autobiography)
Legacy and Impact
August Bournonville's enduring legacy lies in his preservation and development of a unique ballet style. His choreographies continue to be performed worldwide, particularly by the Royal Danish Ballet, which maintains a strong tradition of his work. He is regarded as a national treasure in Denmark.