Fonteyn

Fonteyn is a surname of French origin, possibly derived from the word "fontaine," meaning spring or fountain. It is most famously associated with Margot Fonteyn, a British ballet dancer widely regarded as one of the greatest ballerinas of the 20th century. Born Margaret Evelyn Hookham in Reigate, Surrey, England, she adopted the stage name Fonteyn early in her career. Her artistic partnership with Rudolf Nureyev is legendary, with their performances of ballets such as Giselle and Swan Lake becoming iconic. Fonteyn's career spanned over four decades, and she was celebrated for her grace, musicality, and dramatic interpretation. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1956. Beyond her professional achievements, Fonteyn was also known for her dedication to promoting ballet and inspiring future generations of dancers. The legacy of Margot Fonteyn continues to influence the world of dance.