Carmen de Lavallade, a pioneering dancer, choreographer, and actress whose grace and artistry captivated audiences for over six decades, has died at the age of 94. The news arrives as WWD revisits a 1983 interview with de Lavallade, celebrating Black History Month and her enduring influence on fashion and the performing arts.
De Lavallade broke barriers as the first Black prima ballerina at the Metropolitan Opera, a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. But her impact extended far beyond the ballet stage. She was, as Women’s Wear Daily noted in 1983, “very beautiful,” and her impeccable style consistently drew attention, even earning her features in the publication’s “They Are Wearing” column during a trip to Spoleto, Italy in the late 1950s.
Born in New Orleans and raised in Los Angeles, de Lavallade’s artistic journey began with a scholarship to study dance with Lester Horton. It was within Horton’s company that she honed her skills and, crucially, introduced a young Alvin Ailey to the world of dance. This mentorship proved pivotal, shaping the trajectory of one of modern dance’s most influential figures. As noted by the Alvin Ailey organization, de Lavallade and Ailey shared a lifelong friendship and creative relationship that propelled them both to greater heights.
De Lavallade’s career spanned multiple disciplines. She appeared in films like Carmen Jones (1954) and Odds Against Tomorrow (1959), graced the Broadway stage alongside Ailey in House of Flowers (1954), and became a founding member of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958. Her repertoire included ballets specifically created for her by a constellation of choreographic giants: Lester Horton, Geoffrey Holder (who later became her husband), Alvin Ailey, Glen Tetley, John Butler, and Agnes de Mille.
Her influence wasn’t limited to performance. De Lavallade also choreographed for Dance Theatre of Harlem, PHILADANCO!, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and the Metropolitan Opera, demonstrating a versatility that cemented her status as a true Renaissance woman of the arts. She also extended her talents to acting, appearing in numerous Off-Broadway productions, including interpretations of Death of a Salesman and Othello.
Beyond the stage and screen, de Lavallade shared her wisdom and expertise as a teacher, guiding actors at Yale and becoming a member of both the Yale Repertory Company and the American Repertory Theatre at Harvard. This commitment to education underscored her belief in nurturing the next generation of artists.
De Lavallade’s personal life was as remarkable as her professional one. Her 60-year partnership with Tony Award-winning dancer, painter, and costume designer Geoffrey Holder was a celebrated artistic collaboration. Holder designed many of her most memorable red carpet looks, and the couple frequently appeared in WWD’s “Eye” pages covering New York and Washington, D.C. Society.
The 1983 WWD interview, revisited now, offers a glimpse into de Lavallade’s perspective on the evolving landscape of dance. She observed that while contemporary dancers possessed impressive technical skills, a sense of individuality and style was sometimes lacking. She lamented a growing uniformity, noting that dancers in large companies often felt constrained by the need to “go by the book,” sacrificing originality for conformity.
De Lavallade also expressed concern about the decline of good posture among actors, attributing it to a preference for comfortable, body-concealing clothing. She believed that a strong physical presence was essential for conveying authority and believability on stage.
She acknowledged the positive changes in the dance world – the increased opportunities for dancers and the growing appreciation for the art form – but remained a staunch advocate for artistic expression and the importance of cultivating a unique voice. “If you go by the book, you’re dull,” she stated, encapsulating her belief in the power of individuality.
Carmen de Lavallade’s legacy extends far beyond her numerous accolades, including a Kennedy Center Honor in 2017. She was a trailblazer, a mentor, and an inspiration to generations of artists. Her contributions to dance, theater, and fashion will continue to resonate for years to come, a testament to a life lived with grace, passion, and unwavering commitment to her craft. She is survived by a lasting impact on the world of performing arts.
