Kennedy Center Honors: Patricia McBride
Kennedy Center Honors: Patricia McBride
Patricia McBride, born on August 23, 1942, in Teaneck, New Jersey, is a luminary in the world of ballet, celebrated for her extraordinary career with the New York City Ballet (NYCB). Joining the company in 1959, she ascended to the rank of principal dancer by 1961, becoming the youngest to achieve this status in NYCB's history.

McBride's illustrious career was marked by her collaborations with legendary choreographers George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins, who created numerous roles specifically for her. Her performances in Balanchine's "Tarantella," "Rubies," and "Who Cares?" showcased her vivacity and technical prowess, while Robbins crafted roles for her in "Dances at a Gathering" and "Opus 19/The Dreamer".

Beyond the stage, McBride contributed significantly to the dance community as Associate Artistic Director and Master Teacher at Charlotte Ballet, formerly North Carolina Dance Theatre. Her dedication to nurturing young talent has left an indelible mark on the next generation of dancers.

In recognition of her profound impact on the arts, McBride was honored with the Kennedy Center Honors in 2014, celebrating her as a national treasure in American ballet.

Patricia McBride's legacy endures through her performances, teaching, and the countless dancers she has inspired throughout her remarkable journey in the world of dance.

Author, educator, musician, dancer and all around creative type. Founder of "The Happy Now" website and the online jewelry store "Silver and Sage".