Moscelyne Larkin, American ballerina (d. 2012)

Edna Moscelyne Larkin Jasinski, born on January 14, 1925, and passing on April 25, 2012, was a distinguished American ballerina whose legacy profoundly shaped the landscape of ballet, particularly in the American Southwest. Revered for her exceptional talent and pioneering spirit, Larkin was celebrated as one of the renowned "Five Moons," a collective of five internationally acclaimed Native American ballerinas hailing from Oklahoma who left an indelible mark on 20th-century classical dance.

The "Five Moons" Legacy

The "Five Moons" designation refers to Moscelyne Larkin (Eastern Shawnee/Peoria), Maria Tallchief (Osage), Marjorie Tallchief (Osage), Rosella Hightower (Choctaw), and Yvonne Chouteau (Potawatomi). These remarkable artists, all from Oklahoma and of Native American heritage, achieved global recognition, shattering stereotypes and inspiring countless individuals. Their collective fame underscored the rich cultural contributions of Native Americans to the arts and established Oklahoma as an unexpected but significant cradle of ballet excellence.

An Illustrious International Career

Moscelyne Larkin's early career saw her grace the stages of two of the most influential and innovative ballet companies of the 20th century: the Original Ballet Russe and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. These companies, direct descendants of Sergei Diaghilev’s revolutionary Ballets Russes, were instrumental in popularizing classical ballet across the globe, introducing groundbreaking choreographies and nurturing legendary dancers. Larkin's time with these prestigious troupes allowed her to hone her craft under the tutelage of masters and perform iconic roles, solidifying her reputation as a ballerina of exceptional artistry and technical prowess on an international stage.

Founding the Tulsa Ballet: A Vision Realized

After her illustrious international career, Moscelyne Larkin, alongside her husband, the equally esteemed Polish-American dancer and choreographer Roman Jasinski, chose to settle in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Their return marked a pivotal moment for the state's cultural development. In 1956, driven by a shared vision to bring world-class ballet to the heartland, they co-founded the Tulsa Ballet and its associated school. Their dedication and expertise quickly transformed the nascent organization into a major regional ballet company in the American Southwest. Under their joint artistic leadership, the Tulsa Ballet flourished, becoming a beacon of artistic excellence and a vital institution for dance education. Its growing reputation culminated in a highly anticipated and successful New York City debut in 1983, a significant milestone that affirmed its standing on the national ballet stage.

Enduring Recognition and Cultural Impact

Moscelyne Larkin's profound impact on the arts is permanently commemorated in the "Flight of Spirit" mural, a celebrated artwork displayed prominently in the Rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol building. This vibrant mural, painted by Native American artist Mike Larsen, pays homage to Oklahoma's "Five Moons," immortalizing their grace, strength, and the enduring legacy they bequeathed to both the ballet world and their Native American communities. Larkin's life exemplifies a remarkable blend of artistic achievement, cultural pride, and unwavering dedication to fostering dance education and appreciation within her home state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moscelyne Larkin and the "Five Moons"

Who were the "Five Moons"?
The "Five Moons" were five internationally acclaimed Native American ballerinas from Oklahoma: Moscelyne Larkin, Maria Tallchief, Marjorie Tallchief, Rosella Hightower, and Yvonne Chouteau. They achieved global fame in the 20th century for their exceptional contributions to classical ballet.
What was Moscelyne Larkin's tribal heritage?
Moscelyne Larkin was of Eastern Shawnee and Peoria tribal heritage, proudly representing her Native American roots throughout her career.
What major ballet companies did Moscelyne Larkin dance with?
Before co-founding the Tulsa Ballet, Moscelyne Larkin danced with two of the most prestigious companies of her era: the Original Ballet Russe and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo.
When was the Tulsa Ballet founded and by whom?
The Tulsa Ballet and its associated school were founded in 1956 by Moscelyne Larkin and her husband, Roman Jasinski, in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Where is Moscelyne Larkin honored in art?
Moscelyne Larkin is portrayed in the "Flight of Spirit" mural, located in the Rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol building, alongside the other "Five Moons."