Vera Zorina was a renowned Russian-born dancer and actress who captured the hearts of many through her beauty, charm and talents. With a career spanning three decades, she made a lasting impact in the entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire dancers and performers today.
Born in 1917 in Germany to Russian parents, Zorina was introduced to the world of dance at a young age. She began her training under the guidance of some of the best choreographers in Europe, eventually making her professional debut on stage in 1931 where she quickly gained recognition for her remarkable technique, grace, and poise.
Throughout her career, Zorina worked with some of the most renowned artists in the world, including ballet legend George Balanchine. Some of her most notable performances include lead roles in the Broadway musicals "On Your Toes" and "I Married an Angel" as well as the Hollywood films "The Goldwyn Follies" and "Follow the Fleet".
Aside from her successful career in entertainment, Zorina was also known for her exceptional beauty and grace. She stood tall at 5'6" with a slender figure and striking features that earned her numerous accolades and titles such as "Queen of Ballet" and "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World".
Today, Vera Zorina's contributions to the world of dance and entertainment continue to be celebrated and remembered. In this article, we will delve deeper into her biography, age, height, figure, and net worth, providing you with all you need to know about this legendary icon.
Vera Zorina: A Dancer, Actress, and Choreographer
Vera Zorina was a multi-talented artist, known for her contributions in the fields of dance, acting, and choreography. Born in Germany in 1917, Zorina began her career as a ballet dancer in the 1930s, quickly gaining international recognition for her performances.
Zorina's talents as a dancer and actress were showcased in several Hollywood films, including "The Goldwyn Follies" and "I Married an Angel". She also collaborated with legendary choreographer George Balanchine, performing in many of his ballets and eventually marrying him in 1938.
In addition to her performing career, Zorina also worked as a choreographer, creating ballets for the London Festival Ballet, the Birmingham Royal Ballet, and the American Ballet Theatre, among others.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges throughout her life, Zorina remained devoted to her art, and her legacy as a talented performer and choreographer continues to inspire artists today.
Early Life and Education
Vera Zorina was born Eva Brigitta Hartwig on January 2, 1917, in Berlin, Germany. Her parents were both ballet dancers, and her mother was also an actress. Zorina grew up in a theatrical family, and she began taking dance lessons at a young age.
She was enrolled in the Berlin State Opera Ballet School, where she trained extensively in ballet and other dance forms. Her talent and dedication soon became evident, and she quickly rose through the ranks to become a leading dancer in the company.
In addition to her dance training, Zorina also received a solid academic education, studying languages, literature, and history. She was fluent in several languages, including German, French, and English, which would later prove useful in her international career.
After completing her studies, Zorina joined the prestigious Ballets Russes de Monte Carlo, where she danced alongside other famous ballerinas such as Alicia Markova and Tamara Toumanova. It was during this time that she adopted her stage name, "Vera Zorina."
Career Beginnings
Vera Zorina began her career in the ballet world in Germany, where she joined the Berlin State Opera Ballet as a teenager. She quickly gained recognition for her exceptional talent and versatility, and her performances garnered critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
After several years with the Berlin State Opera, Zorina was offered a position with the Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo, one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world at the time. She accepted the offer and joined the company in 1933, where she continued to impress audiences with her dazzling performances.
During her time with the Ballet Russes de Monte Carlo, Zorina had the opportunity to work with some of the most renowned choreographers of the era, including George Balanchine, who would become her mentor and later her husband. Balanchine recognized Zorina's unique talents and created numerous roles for her, showcasing her abilities as a dancer, actress, and storyteller.
As Zorina's career continued to soar, she began to receive offers from Hollywood studios to appear in films. Her first major film role was in the 1936 musical "The Great Ziegfeld," where she played the lead role of Anna Held. The film was a commercial and critical success, and Zorina's performance was highly praised.
Personal Life and Measurements
Aside from her successful career in the entertainment industry, Vera Zorina was also known for her personal life. She was married three times, first to dancer and actor George Balanchine, then to film producer Godfrey Lyston, and lastly to businessman Paul Kohner.
Zorina was known for her stunning figure, with a height of 5'6" and measurements of 34-24-34. She maintained her physique through dance and exercise, and her elegance and grace inspired many in her industry.
Zorina was also devoted to her family, particularly her children from her second marriage. She lived a life filled with adventure, travel, and the pursuit of her passions, and she inspired many with her talents and spirit.
- Height: 5'6"
- Measurements: 34-24-34
- Marriages: George Balanchine, Godfrey Lyston, Paul Kohner
Net Worth and Legacy
Vera Zorina's impressive career in ballet, film, and theatre made her quite wealthy during her lifetime. While specific figures may not be available, it is estimated that at the height of her career, she was earning a significant amount of money from her performances.
Beyond her financial success, Zorina was also a respected artist and a pioneer in her field, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of dance. Her contributions to ballet, particularly in the United States where she introduced new styles and techniques, have influenced generations of dancers and continue to be recognized today.
Zorina's legacy also lives on through the many films and productions in which she appeared, including her memorable roles in The Goldwyn Follies, On Your Toes, and Lovely to Look At. Her performances continue to be celebrated by audiences and critics alike, showcasing her talent and dedication to her craft.
Even after her passing in 2003, Vera Zorina's impact on dance and the performing arts continues to be felt. Her contributions to the world of ballet and her lifelong dedication to her art will always be remembered, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps.
FAQ
Who is Vera Zorina?
Vera Zorina was a famous ballet dancer, actress, and choreographer who was born in Germany in 1917 and died in 2003.
What were some of Vera Zorina's most famous roles?
Vera Zorina was best known for her roles in several Hollywood musicals, including "The Goldwyn Follies" and "I Was an Adventuress." She was also famous for her performances in the ballets "Les Sylphides," "Swan Lake," and "Giselle."
What was Vera Zorina's height?
Vera Zorina was 5 feet 6 inches tall.
What was Vera Zorina's figure like?
Vera Zorina was known for her slim and graceful figure, which was perfect for ballet dancing. She was known for her beautiful posture and elegant movements.
What was Vera Zorina's net worth?
Vera Zorina's net worth is difficult to estimate, as she lived during a time when financial information was not as widely available as it is today. However, she was successful in both Hollywood and the ballet world, so it is safe to assume that she was quite wealthy.
