What is gelsey kirkland?

Gelsey Kirkland is an American ballet dancer and choreographer, who is renowned for her technical precision and dramatic interpretation on stage. She was born on December 29, 1952, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Kirkland began her ballet training at the age of eight with instructor Allegra Kent. She joined the New York City Ballet in 1968 and was promoted to soloist in 1972. She gained international fame when she joined the American Ballet Theatre in 1974 and became one of their principal dancers.

Kirkland has performed lead roles in many classical ballets, such as "Giselle," "Swan Lake," and "The Sleeping Beauty." She is also known for her collaborations with famous choreographer George Balanchine, who created roles specifically for her.

In the 1980s, Kirkland battled with drug addiction and weight issues, which led to a temporary hiatus from ballet. However, she made a successful comeback in the late 1980s and continued to dance until her retirement in 1992.

After retiring from performing, Kirkland turned to teaching and choreographing. She has staged ballets for various companies around the world and has also written an autobiography titled "Dancing on my Grave."

Gelsey Kirkland's contributions to the world of ballet have earned her numerous awards and accolades, and she is considered one of the greatest ballerinas of her generation.