Person Biography:
Gelsey Kirkland was a renowned American ballerina, known for her diminutive stature, emotional intensity, and dramatic off-stage life. Born to playwright Jack Kirkland, she was destined for the theatre and began ballet classes with her sister Johnna. Despite being slow to learn, Gelsey's determination and passion for dance earned her a spot at the School of American Ballet.
Gelsey became a favorite of George Balanchine, who choreographed the piece "Firebird" for her. She idolized him and saw him as a father figure, but was devastated when he belittled her ballet idols, Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn.
She went on to join the American Ballet Theater, where she partnered with Mikhail "Misha" Baryshnikov. They danced many iconic roles together, including "Giselle", "Sleeping Beauty", and "Romeo and Juliet". Gelsey was known for her incredible technique and artistry, and was considered one of the best ballerinas of her generation.
However, her life was marred by a raging cocaine addiction and tumultuous relationships. She struggled with addiction and personal demons, and was fired from the ABT on multiple occasions. Despite her struggles, Gelsey continued to dance and eventually found recovery in London.
Gelsey wrote two autobiographies, "Dancing On My Grave" and "The Shape Of Love", detailing her journey through addiction and recovery. She also collaborated with her husband Greg Lawrence on a children's book, "The Little Ballerina and Her Dancing Horse".
