d) George Balanchine

George Balanchine, who founded the New York City Ballet, is often considered the father of American ballet. A Russian-born choreographer, Balanchine moved to America in the 1930s where he revolutionized ballet by infusing it with energy, speed, and athleticism. His style emphasized the beauty of movement and abstract form. Balanchine’s prolific choreographic work and his development of the New York City Ballet into a premier dance company significantly influenced the growth and evolution of ballet in the United States. His legacy in dance continues to inspire and shape the art form globally.