Ben Stevenson was born on April 4, 1936, in Portsmouth, England. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for dance and began training at London's Arts Educational School. It was here that his passion for ballet was ignited, and he quickly excelled in his studies, eventually catching the eye of some of the top ballet companies in the world.
At the age of eighteen, Stevenson was offered a principal dancer position with The Royal Ballet, which was then known as the Sadler's Wells Ballet. This opportunity was a dream come true for the young dancer, and he quickly made a name for himself as one of the most talented and versatile dancers in the company.
It was during his time with the Sadler's Wells Ballet that Stevenson caught the attention of the legendary dancer and choreographer Ninette de Valois. Impressed by his skill and dedication, de Valois personally invited Stevenson to join the company, solidifying his place as a rising star in the ballet world.
Throughout his career, Stevenson performed with some of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world, including the English National Ballet and The Royal Ballet. He also had the opportunity to work as a choreographer, creating award-winning pieces that showcased his unique style and vision.
After making a name for himself in Europe, Stevenson made the bold move to the United States, where he would go on to lead several American dance companies. He served as the artistic director of the Houston Ballet, Texas Ballet Theater, and the Chicago Ballet, leaving a lasting impact on each organization with his innovative choreography and leadership.
In 1979, Stevenson took on the role of co-director of the National Ballet in Washington, D.C. During his time with the company, he continued to push the boundaries of classical ballet, earning praise for his bold and creative programming choices.
Ben Stevenson's contributions to the world of ballet are immeasurable. His passion for the art form, coupled with his exceptional talent and dedication, have inspired generations of dancers and choreographers. His legacy lives on through the countless ballets he created and the dancers he mentored throughout his illustrious career.
Today, Stevenson is widely regarded as one of the greatest dancers and choreographers of his generation, with a body of work that continues to be performed and celebrated around the world.
As a true pioneer in the world of ballet, Ben Stevenson's impact on the art form will be felt for years to come.