Maurice Béjart, French-Swiss dancer, choreographer, and director (d. 2007)

Maurice Béjart, born Maurice-Jean Berger (French: [beʒaʁ]), was a profoundly influential French-born dancer, choreographer, and opera director whose revolutionary vision reshaped 20th-century ballet. From his birth on 1 January 1927 in Marseille, France, to his passing on 22 November 2007 in Lausanne, Switzerland, Béjart left an indelible mark on the global dance landscape.

Béjart was renowned for developing a uniquely popular and potent expressionistic form of modern ballet. He moved beyond traditional narrative structures, boldly tackling vast, universal themes that resonated deeply with broad audiences. His works often explored profound human experiences, delving into mythology, spirituality, philosophy, death, love, and the collective human condition, making ballet accessible and emotionally engaging to a degree previously unseen.

His distinctive choreographic language blended classical ballet technique with elements of modern dance, Asian philosophy, and theatrical spectacle, creating a powerful synergy that was both intellectually stimulating and visually captivating. Béjart believed in dance as a means of communication, aiming to connect directly with the audience's emotions and intellect, often featuring a strong male presence and dynamic group formations.

Béjart's career was marked by the establishment and leadership of several pivotal dance companies. After early ventures like the Ballets de l'Étoile and the Ballet-Théâtre de Paris, he rose to international prominence with the creation of the Ballet du XXe Siècle (Ballet of the 20th Century) in Brussels, Belgium, in 1960. This company quickly became a global sensation, touring extensively and bringing his innovative works to millions. Landmark creations from this period include *Le Sacre du Printemps* (The Rite of Spring), *Boléro*, and the monumental *Ninth Symphony*.

In 1987, Béjart relocated his company to Lausanne, Switzerland, renaming it the Béjart Ballet Lausanne. Here, he continued to create groundbreaking ballets and foster new talent, cementing Lausanne's reputation as a major center for contemporary dance. The company remains a vibrant force, preserving his legacy while continuing to innovate.

Beyond his performing companies, Béjart was also a dedicated educator, founding the Rudra Béjart School in Lausanne in 1992. This international academy emphasized a holistic approach to dance training, integrating various artistic disciplines to nurture versatile performers, further extending his influence on future generations of dancers.

While primarily celebrated as a choreographer, Maurice Béjart also made significant contributions as an opera director. His stage productions were often as visually ambitious and conceptually bold as his ballets, bringing his unique theatrical sensibility to the operatic world. His multi-faceted career underscored his belief in the interconnectedness of the arts.

Béjart's legacy extends beyond his performances; he championed dance as an art form for the masses, constantly striving to make it relevant and accessible. His pioneering work profoundly influenced countless choreographers and dancers, solidifying his status as one of the most significant figures in modern dance history.

In a notable gesture recognizing his profound contributions to Swiss culture and his long-standing residence in Lausanne, Maurice Béjart was awarded Swiss citizenship posthumously in 2007, shortly after his passing. This rare honor underscored the deep appreciation and admiration the nation held for an artist who had made Switzerland the home and creative hub for a significant part of his life and career, enriching its cultural landscape immeasurably.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maurice Béjart

What was Maurice Béjart primarily known for?
Maurice Béjart was widely celebrated as a groundbreaking French-born dancer, choreographer, and opera director, most notably for establishing and leading the influential Béjart Ballet Lausanne. He revolutionized modern ballet by creating an expressionistic form that addressed vast, universal themes.
What defined Maurice Béjart's choreographic style?
Béjart's style was characterized by its expressionistic nature, blending classical ballet with modern dance, Asian influences, and theatrical spectacle. He focused on profound human themes such as spirituality, love, and death, aiming to make ballet emotionally accessible and intellectually engaging for large audiences, often employing powerful male ensembles.
Which major dance companies did Maurice Béjart direct?
He gained international fame with the Ballet du XXe Siècle (Ballet of the 20th Century) in Brussels, which he directed from 1960. In 1987, he moved the company to Switzerland and renamed it the Béjart Ballet Lausanne, where he continued his innovative work until his passing.
Did Maurice Béjart have any educational initiatives?
Yes, Maurice Béjart founded the Rudra Béjart School in Lausanne in 1992. This acclaimed international academy provided comprehensive training, integrating various artistic disciplines to develop well-rounded dancers, further cementing his impact on dance education.
Why was Maurice Béjart awarded Swiss citizenship posthumously?
Maurice Béjart was granted Swiss citizenship posthumously in 2007 as a profound recognition of his immense contributions to Swiss culture and his significant long-term residence in Lausanne, where his Béjart Ballet Lausanne became a cornerstone of the nation's artistic life.