RIP HENRY DANTON

[LBC]

The sad news has just reached the UK that Henry Danton (b. 30th March 1919) passed away at his home in the USA on the 9th February 2022.

The London Ballet Circle (LBC) sends its condolences to his family and friends, with whom he was looking forward to celebrating his 103rd birthday via Zoom in a few weeks' time

 

Henry was a Sadler's Wells Royal Ballet dancer after World War 2 and was a member of the original cast of Sir Frederick Ashton's Symphonic Variations. After a distinguished international career as a dancer, he turned to teaching and became legendary in that craft.

 

The LBC was extremely fortunate to be able to link up with Henry for an "In Conversation" with Dame Monica Mason in May 2021 and when the LBC celebrated its 75th anniversary in September 2021. Forum members might be interested in reading the report of the May interview here: 

https://www.tlbc.org.uk/resources/138-henry-danton-in-conversation-with-dame-monica-mason 

 

 

[capybara]

Sad news indeed. Henry was an amazing person and his links into ballet history were so very insightful and valuable.

[Bruce Wall]

How blessed we have been to share in his concerted wit, wisdom and defining grace.  RIP 

[Odyssey]

I remember him being interviewed a few years back about the creation of Symphonic Variations. Had seen plenty of photos of him, so it was good to hear him talk in person.

[Scheherezade]

So very sad. An inspirational man whose death marks the end of an era.

[Jan McNulty]

Such sad news.  RIP Henry Danton

[Balletfanp]

This is so sad. His Zoom interview with the LBC recently was fascinating - what an amazing man.

[AnneL]

What very sad news. He was a link to such a wonderful era in ballet history.

Edited February 11, 2022 by AnneL
Further thoughts

[MaddieRose]

RIP Mr Danton. Getting to hear him speak about his life and experiences in various different events over the years has been an honour, and I'm sure his students were blessed to have been taught by him. 

[Sebastian]

This is terribly sad news. The time I was privileged to spend with Henry was some of the most informative about the art of ballet I ever expect to have. His memories were historically significant, of course, but also deeply touching with regard to colleagues he admired and fervently focussed on how the essence of the art form was at risk of getting lost.

 

He and I discussed attending certain shows together but Henry advised against it. "I might groan, I am apparently known to groan" he said. One day I might write up what I learned of his high standards, where they were rooted and what exactly made him groan. RIP. 

[alison]

So, the last original cast member of Symphonic Variations leaves us.  Hardly unexpected, at his advanced age, but a great loss to the ballet world.  RIP.

[Sharon]

Very sad news.

May he rest in Peace 🙏🏽

[Sim]

He was a fascinating and wonderful man.  I am so pleased he had such a long and full life.  Thanks and RIP Mr Danton.  

[Sebastian]

The Royal Opera House has published this online, with a lovely quote from Sir Peter Wright:

 

https://www.roh.org.uk/news/remembering-henry-danton-19192022

 

 

[Jeannette]

So sorry to read of Mr. Danton’s passing. May he Rest In Peace.