Maria Tallchief's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Maria Tallchief. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Maria Tallchief (Elizabeth Marie Tall Chief) was an Osage and American ballerina, recognized as America's first major prima ballerina and the first Native American to achieve that rank. Her collaboration with choreographer George Balanchine is credited with revolutionizing American ballet. Tallchief's talent and groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of American dancers and brought prominence to ballet in the United States.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1943: Krassovska Leaves and Tallchief Receives Positive Reviews

In the spring of 1943, Krassovska left the company after an argument with Denham, which thrust Tallchief into a prominent role. She received positive reviews, including praise from The New York Times critic John Martin for her performance in Nijinkska's Chopin Concerto.

1944: Collaboration with George Balanchine and Promotion

In 1944, George Balanchine began working with Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo on "Song of Norway," marking a significant turning point in his and Tallchief's careers. Balanchine gave Tallchief a solo and made her Danilova's understudy. Following the ballet's success, Tallchief's salary was increased to $50 per week, and she was promoted to "soloist."

1945: Balanchine's Tutelage and Transformation

In 1945, while on tour, George Balanchine began to intensely tutor Maria Tallchief, focusing on her basic ballet technique. He helped her transform her weaknesses, particularly her turnout, into strengths, enhancing her overall performance and artistry.

October 1948: Debut with the New York City Ballet

In October 1948, Maria Tallchief became one of the first stars and the first prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet, marking a significant moment in her career and in the history of American ballet.

1949: Stars in The Firebird

In 1949, Maria Tallchief danced the lead role in "The Firebird," choreographed by George Balanchine. The debut was a sensation, launching her to the top of the ballet world and earning her the title of prima ballerina.

June 29, 1953: "Maria Tallchief Day" Declared

On June 29, 1953, the Oklahoma Legislature declared it "Maria Tallchief Day" in honor of her ballet achievements and pride in her American Indian heritage.

1954: Performance in The Nutcracker

In 1954, Maria Tallchief performed the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in George Balanchine's reworked version of "The Nutcracker." Her performance significantly contributed to the ballet becoming an annual Christmas classic and a major box-office success.

1954: Returns to the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo

In 1954, Maria Tallchief worked for the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, earning $2,000 a week, reportedly the highest salary ever paid to a dancer at the time. This marked a significant moment in her career and recognition of her value in the dance world.

1960: Joins American Ballet Theatre and Performs in Russia

In 1960, Maria Tallchief joined the American Ballet Theatre, later becoming a prima ballerina. That summer, she performed with Erik Bruhn in Russia, becoming the first American dancer to perform at Moscow's Bolshoi Theater. She was recognized for her "aplomb, brilliance, and dignity of the American style."

1960: Dance Magazine Award

In 1960, Maria Tallchief was recognized on Dance Magazine's annual award list for her elegance, brilliance, and modesty, which made a distinguished contribution to the American Ballet Theatre's cultural mission in Europe and Russia.

1962: Partnership with Rudolf Nureyev

In 1962, Maria Tallchief was Rudolf Nureyev's partner for his American debut, which was broadcast on national television. This partnership was a significant event in both of their careers.