Martins, Peter

Martins, Peter, 1946–, Danish ballet dancer and choreographer. He studied at the School of the Royal Danish Ballet and performed with its company (1965–69). In 1969 he joined the New York City Ballet, where he danced in numerous ballets, including Chaconne and Vienna Waltzes, often partnering Suzanne Farrell. Martins' choreographed works include Calcium Light Night (1977), Five Easy Pieces (1980), Les Gentilhommes (1987), A Musical Offering (1991), Symphonic Dances (1994), and Distant Light (2004). In 1983 Martins retired from dancing and with Jerome Robbins became co-ballet master in chief of the company, a position Martins occupied alone after the Robbins' retirement in 1989. Martins retired (2018) after accusations in 2017 of abusive behavior and sexual harassment.

See his autobiography (with R. Cornfield), Far from Denmark (1982).

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