Definition
Michael Somes (1917–1994) was a British ballet dancer, most renowned for his partnership with Dame Margot Fonteyn and his contributions to the Royal Ballet as a leading principal dancer and later as a choreographer and teacher.
Overview
Born Michael John Somes on 2 June 1917 in Plymouth, Devon, England, he trained at the Sadler's Wells Ballet School (now the Royal Ballet School). He joined the Sadler's Wells Ballet in 1935, advancing to principal dancer in 1940. Somes became a prominent figure in the company during the mid‑20th century, celebrated for his technical precision and dramatic interpretation. His most notable collaborations were with Margot Fonteyn; together they created iconic roles in works by choreographers such as Frederick Ashton, Kenneth MacMillan, and John Cranko. After retiring from performance in the early 1960s, Somes served as the Royal Ballet’s répétiteur and later as director of the Royal Academy of Dancing (now the Royal Academy of Dance). He was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1965. Somes died on 15 August 1994 in London.
Etymology/Origin
- Michael is a given name of Hebrew origin, meaning “Who is like God?”
- Somes is an English surname, historically recorded in the United Kingdom. Its origins are less certain but may derive from a locational name referring to a “southern” region or from the Middle English word somme meaning “summer,” potentially indicating a seasonal association.
Characteristics
- Technical proficiency: Recognized for a strong classical technique, especially his clean footwork and control in male variations.
- Partnering skill: Praised for his supportive and expressive partnering, notably with Margot Fonteyn, contributing to the development of the English romantic ballet tradition.
- Repertoire: Performed leading roles in ballets such as Les Sylphides, The Sleeping Beauty (Prince Désiré), Cinderella (Prince Charming), and created roles in Ashton’s Symphonic Variations (1946) and La Sonnambula (1946).
- Choreographic and pedagogical influence: After his stage career, Somes staged productions for the Royal Ballet and other companies, preserving the stylistic nuances of the early English ballet repertoire. He also taught at the Royal Academy of Dance, influencing subsequent generations of dancers.
Related Topics
- Royal Ballet (formerly Sadler’s Wells Ballet)
- Margot Fonteyn – frequent artistic partner
- Frederick Ashton – choreographer who created several roles for Somes
- Kenneth MacMillan – contemporary choreographer associated with the Royal Ballet
- Royal Academy of Dance – institution where Somes served as director
- British ballet history (20th century)
All information presented reflects documented historical records and biographical sources.