Kaye, Nora (1920-1987), was an American ballerina. She became known for her interpretations of highly dramatic roles in such modern works as The Cage, Dark Elegies, Fall River Legend, Lilac Garden, and Pillar of Fire. Kaye also won praise for her dancing in classics of the 1800’s, including Giselle and Swan Lake.
Kaye was born on Jan. 17, 1920, in New York City. Her real name was Nura Koreva. She danced with the Ballet Theatre (now American Ballet Theatre) from 1940 to 1951, when she joined the New York City Ballet. She returned to the Ballet Theatre in 1954. Kaye retired from dancing in 1960. For many years, she assisted her husband, Herbert Ross, a choreographer and director of musical comedies and motion pictures. In 1980, Kaye became associate director of the American Ballet Theatre. She died on Feb. 28, 1987.
