- Anna Pavlova is also the name of an Olympic gymnast. See Anna Pavlova (gymnast).
Anna Pavlova (Анна Павлова) (January 31, 1881 (Old Style)/February 12, 1881 (New Style) - January 23, 1931) was a famous ballet dancer of the early 20th century. Born Anna Matveyevna, in St. Petersburg, Russia, she trained at and danced for the Mariinsky Theatre. In the first years of the Ballets Russes she worked briefly for Serge Diaghilev before founding her own company and performing throughout the world.
Her most famous showpiece was The Dying Swan choreographed for her by Michel Fokine.
The pavlova dessert was named after her, although its origins are poorly documented.
She died in The Hague, Netherlands while touring.
