Jerome Robbins

Celebrated American Choreographer and Director

Jerome Robbins was an American choreographer, director, and dancer, widely known for his work in both ballet and on Broadway. He was born on October 11, 1918, in New York City and began his career as a modern dancer before transitioning to ballet. Robbins gained prominence in the world of theater for his innovative choreography. One of his most notable contributions to the arts was his work on the 1957 Broadway production of "West Side Story," for which he conceived, directed, and choreographed the groundbreaking musical. The show was a contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" set in New York City and featured music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.