Roland Petit

French dancer and choreographer, born to a French father and Italian mother (Rose Repetto), the director of Ballets de Paris. With great personal magnetism, he closely collaborated with writers and designers. He became known as one of the most versatile French post-war choreographers with his combinations of chic, sex, theatrics and his own originality.

Starting his career with the Paris Opera, he formed companies and toured extensively, the star and chief choreographer. He also directed and composed the production numbers in revues in Hollywood and on TV, often staging numbers with his wife Zizi (Renee) Jeanmarie. In 1949 he choreographed "Carmen," in 1976, "Nana," and in 1985, "The Blue Angel."

The dancer died on July 10, 2011 in Geneva, Switzerland.