Bruhn, << broon, >> Erik (1928-1986), a Danish ballet dancer, was rated by many people to be the best male dancer of his time. His dancing combined strict classical form with vivid dramatic characterization, elegance, and remarkable purity of style. His greatest roles included the male leads in Giselle, La Sylphide, Miss Julie, Night Shadow, Les Sylphides, Swan Lake, and the great classic pas de deux (dances for two persons).
Bruhn was born on Oct. 3, 1928, in Copenhagen. He was trained at the school of the Royal Danish Ballet and became a leading dancer with the company. He danced with many companies throughout the world, including the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre. He retired as a performer of leading roles in 1972, but resumed his career in 1975 to dance character parts. Bruhn served as director of the Royal Swedish Ballet from 1967 to 1973. He settled in Canada in 1975 and became director of the National Ballet of Canada in 1983. In this position, Bruhn’s vision centered on the development of a new Canadian choreography. He died on April 1, 1986.
