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Highlights of ballerina Wendy Whelan’s career
Original Publication Date: October 14, 2014 9:20AM
Publication Updated: January 8, 2025 9:51PM
NEW YORK, N.Y. – Ballerina Wendy Whelan retires this weekend from New York City Ballet after a celebrated 30-year career. Some highlights:
1982: As a ballet student in Louisville, Kentucky, Whelan wins a scholarship to the School of American Ballet, the official school of New York City Ballet.
1984: Whelan joins New York City Ballet as an apprentice.
1986: Becomes full member of company.
1991: Promoted to principal dancer.
2001: Debuts in “Polyphonia,” one of choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s signature ballets.
2005: Debuts in Wheeldon’s “After the Rain,” which will become known for its stunning pas de deux featuring Whelan and partner Jock Soto.
2006: Debuts in choreographer Alexei Ratmansky’s “Russian Seasons.”
2007: Wins Dance Magazine award.
2008: Debuts in Ratmansky’s “Concerto DSCH.”
2011: Honored with Bessie award at Apollo Theater ceremony.
2013: Premieres her own evening of dance, “Restless Creature,” a performance with four contemporary choreographers, at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival (with plans to tour the country later).
2013: Undergoes hip reconstruction surgery.
2014: Final season with New York City Ballet.
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