Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq

Among the legendary ballerinas, Tanaquil Le Clercq stood out as perhaps the most ethereal. Her unprecedented physique captivated audiences and choreographers alike. With her long, elegant form reminiscent of a thoroughbred, she set a new standard for the illustrious George Balanchine. Her remarkable grace and distinctive stage presence made her an inspiration for two of the most influential choreographers in dance history, George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins. She eventually wed Balanchine, and Robbins crafted his renowned interpretation of Afternoon of a Faun specifically for her. She enjoyed love, fame, and admiration, reigning as the preeminent dancer of her era until it all abruptly ended. At 27, she was afflicted by polio, resulting in paralysis. She never danced again, leaving the ballet world forever touched by her poignant story.