WILLIAM SOLEAU has created over 70 ballets on companies around the world. He first gained international recognition in 1987 for his creation of a new full-length work Universe for The Shanghai Ballet of China during its first International Shanghai Arts Festival. As the resident choreographer and principal dancer for both Finis Jhung's Chamber Ballet U.S.A. and Dennis Wayne's DANCERS in New York City in the 1980's, he established himself as an emerging choreographer.
Mr. Soleau had the opportunity as a dancer to tour to over 30 countries while personally working with such notable choreographers as Alvin Ailey, John Butler, Anthony Tudor, Toer Van Shayk, Gray Verden and Norman Walker. Besides the above-named companies, his works can be seen in the repertories of Ballet Austin, Ballet British Columbia, The Icelandic Ballet, Ballet Florida, American Ballroom Dance Theater, Ballet Gamonet, Ballet de Montreal, Ballet NY, Sarasota Ballet, Richmond Ballet and the Louisville Ballet among many others.
Mr. Soleau was the recipient of the Choo San-Goh Award for Choreography in 2006. He presently serves as the Executive Director for the John Butler Foundation, Inc. dedicated to preserving and protecting the master works of this influential American Choreographer.
Hot Nights, Cool Dance Photo: Will Shively
