Gaétan Vestris

Gaetano Apolline Baldassarre Vestris (* 1729 in Florence, † 1808) was an Italian dancer and choreographer. Gaetano was the son of Tommaso Marino Ippolito Vestris, of whose seven children have taken a total of three dancer Occupation: Gaetano, Teresa (1726-1808) and Angiolo ( 1730-1809 ).

Life and work

Vestris was a student of Louis Dupré at the Académie Royale in Paris, where he debuted in 1749. In 1751 he was already so successful that the words to him were placed in the mouth: " There are only three big men in Europe. The King of Prussia, Voltaire and me," He was a member of the Opéra National de Paris, where he dancing master of King Louis XVI. had. From 1770 to 1776 he was a dancing-master and choreographer, Jean Georges Noverre in 1776 until he succeeded. On the occasion of the debut of his grandson, he joined with 71 years on again. Vestris was an excellent mime and dancer. He is one of the first dancers, which took off the mask and also stressed the facial expressions in dance.

Vestris was married to the successful German dancer Anna Heinel ( 1753-1808 ). He had several children, which is also the profession of dancer taken: his son Auguste Vestris was considered the best dancers of his time. Auguste debuted as a twelve year old at the Opéra National de Paris and was remained there for 36 years solo dancer of the company.

Gaetano's brother Angiolo Vestris (1730-1809) was with Marie Rose Gourgaud, a sister of the famous actor Dugazon married.

Therese, a sister of Gaetano and Angiolo was also a dancer. She was known for her numerous love affairs.