# Frederick Ashton

> British dancer and choreographer (1904–1988)

**Wikidata**: [Q711073](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q711073)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_Ashton)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/frederick-ashton

## Summary
Frederick Ashton was a British dancer and choreographer, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in ballet during the 20th century. He is best known for his work as a choreographer, creating numerous iconic ballets that have left a lasting impact on the art form. Ashton's contributions to dance choreography and ballet have earned him international recognition and numerous awards, including the Order of Merit and the Legion of Honour.

## Biography
- **Born**: September 17, 1904
- **Nationality**: British
- **Education**: Royal Ballet School
- **Known for**: Choreographing numerous iconic ballets and contributing significantly to the field of dance
- **Employer(s)**: Royal Ballet
- **Field(s)**: Dance choreography, ballet

## Contributions
Frederick Ashton made significant contributions to the world of ballet and dance choreography. He created numerous iconic ballets, including "Symphonic Variations," "Cinderella," and "La Fille mal gardée." His work is characterized by its musicality, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling. Ashton's choreography has been performed by major ballet companies worldwide, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary choreographers. He also served as the director of the Royal Ballet, where he nurtured and developed the talents of many dancers and choreographers.

## FAQs
**What is Frederick Ashton known for?**
Frederick Ashton is known for his significant contributions to the field of ballet and dance choreography. He created numerous iconic ballets that are celebrated for their musicality, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling.

**What awards did Frederick Ashton receive?**
Frederick Ashton received several prestigious awards, including the Order of Merit, the Legion of Honour, and the National Dance Awards. These awards recognize his outstanding contributions to the world of dance.

**Where did Frederick Ashton study?**
Frederick Ashton studied at the Royal Ballet School, where he honed his skills as a dancer and choreographer.

**What are some of Frederick Ashton's most famous ballets?**
Some of Frederick Ashton's most famous ballets include "Symphonic Variations," "Cinderella," and "La Fille mal gardée." These works are celebrated for their artistic merit and have been performed by major ballet companies worldwide.

**What role did Frederick Ashton play at the Royal Ballet?**
Frederick Ashton served as the director of the Royal Ballet, where he played a crucial role in nurturing and developing the talents of many dancers and choreographers. His leadership helped shape the artistic direction of the company.

## Why They Matter
Frederick Ashton's work has had a profound impact on the world of ballet and dance choreography. His innovative choreography and artistic vision have influenced generations of dancers and choreographers. Ashton's ballets are celebrated for their musicality, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling, and they continue to be performed by major ballet companies worldwide. His contributions to the Royal Ballet and his role as a mentor to many dancers and choreographers have helped shape the artistic direction of the company and the broader field of dance.

## Notable For
- **Choreography**: Created numerous iconic ballets, including "Symphonic Variations," "Cinderella," and "La Fille mal gardée."
- **Awards**: Received the Order of Merit, the Legion of Honour, and the National Dance Awards.
- **Leadership**: Served as the director of the Royal Ballet, nurturing and developing the talents of many dancers and choreographers.
- **Influence**: His work has influenced generations of dancers and choreographers, and his ballets continue to be performed worldwide.

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Frederick Ashton was born on September 17, 1904. He studied at the Royal Ballet School, where he developed his skills as a dancer and choreographer. His early training laid the foundation for his future contributions to the world of ballet.

### Career and Contributions
Frederick Ashton's career in ballet and dance choreography spanned several decades. He created numerous iconic ballets that are celebrated for their artistic merit. Some of his most famous works include "Symphonic Variations," "Cinderella," and "La Fille mal gardée." These ballets are known for their musicality, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling.

Ashton's choreography has been performed by major ballet companies worldwide, and his influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary choreographers. He also served as the director of the Royal Ballet, where he played a crucial role in nurturing and developing the talents of many dancers and choreographers. His leadership helped shape the artistic direction of the company.

### Awards and Recognition
Frederick Ashton received several prestigious awards throughout his career. These include the Order of Merit, the Legion of Honour, and the National Dance Awards. These awards recognize his outstanding contributions to the world of dance and his significant impact on the field of ballet.

### Legacy and Influence
Frederick Ashton's work has had a lasting impact on the world of ballet and dance choreography. His innovative choreography and artistic vision have influenced generations of dancers and choreographers. His ballets continue to be performed by major ballet companies worldwide, and his contributions to the Royal Ballet have helped shape the artistic direction of the company.

Ashton's legacy is marked by his dedication to the art form and his commitment to nurturing and developing the talents of others. His work remains a testament to his artistic genius and his enduring influence on the world of dance.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. Czech National Authority Database
4. International Standard Name Identifier
5. MusicBrainz
6. SNAC
7. Internet Broadway Database
8. Find a Grave
9. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
10. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
11. Croatian Encyclopedia
12. Munzinger Personen
13. IMDb
14. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
15. BBC Things
16. Carnegie Hall linked open data
17. The Movie Database
18. LIBRIS. 2008
19. Virtual Study of Theatre Institute
20. performing-arts.ch
21. Media Library for Dance and Theatre