Laura Wilson (1901-1999)
Cecchetti Council of America REMEMBERING LAURA WILSON – 1999
The Charter Members of the Cecchetti Council of America had the insight to bring the first generation Cecchetti teachers to guide us when we were first learning the Cecchetti principles. Laura Wilson was one of our very special teachers.
Laura Wilson had a great influence on many of us in the United States. The Cecchetti Council of America invited her numerous times as a guest teacher in the 1960’s. Several CCA teachers found Laura’s teaching so valuable that they traveled to England to syudy with her privately.
As a mentor, she provided a wealth of understanding of the Cecchetti principles. As a person, she took great joy in sharing experiences of her life. When one thinks of Laura, one remembers a poised person, a brilliant dancer, a superb ballet teacher with a keen sense of humour, and a person who enjoyed every aspect of life.
Laura, who danced in Diaghilev’s Les Ballets Russes in London, was known for her beautiful port de bras, which she attributed to Maestro Cecchetti’s tutorage. Laura demonstrated brilliant quick footwork, breathtaking grand allegro, and light, elastic ballon. Laura was a mentor. She enjoyed all forms of art and dance and taught Cecchetti’s work in its purist form. She was a true friend and loved by many.