Robert Helpmann transitioned from his origins in Mount Gambier, Australia, to become a prominent fixture in the British dance and theatre scenes. Throughout a professional life that spanned over five decades, he navigated the roles of ballet dancer, choreographer, stage actor, and film director, leaving an indelible mark on the international performing arts landscape until his death in 1986.
Early Development and Australian Foundations
Born in 1909, Helpmann attended Prince Alfred College before pursuing formal dance training. In 1926, he became a student apprentice under Anna Pavlova during her Australian tour, receiving instruction from Alexis Dolinoff. Following this, he joined J. C. Williamson Ltd. as a principal dancer, performing in various musicals and pantomimes including Frasquita, The Merry Widow, and The New Moon.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →The Vic-Wells Ballet and Artistic Partnerships
Encouraged by Margaret Rawlings, Helpmann relocated to Britain in 1932 to join the Vic-Wells Ballet, directed by Ninette de Valois. He quickly rose to prominence, partnering with Alicia Markova and later Margot Fonteyn in significant productions such as The Haunted Ballroom, The Rake's Progress, and Apparitions. During the Second World War, when chief choreographer Frederick Ashton joined military service, Helpmann assumed responsibility for the company's choreography while maintaining his principal dancing duties.
Transition to Acting and Directing
Helpmann expanded his artistic range by performing in Shakespearean plays at the Old Vic and across the West End. His portrayal of Oberon in A Midsummer Night's Dream earned significant critical acclaim. Beyond his stage work, he appeared in fifteen films, ranging from One of Our Aircraft is Missing in 1942 to the 1984 production Second Time Lucky. Notably, he played the Child Catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and appeared in The Red Shoes and The Tales of Hoffmann.
Later Years and Legacy
In 1965, Helpmann returned to Australia to serve as co-director of the Australian Ballet, eventually becoming the sole director in 1975. His contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Award, the Royal Order of the Polar Star, and the National Order of the Cedar. In 1964, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire, followed by a knighthood as a Knight Bachelor in 1968. He was also named Australian of the Year in 1965.
Fast facts
- Born: 1909, Mount Gambier
- Died: 1986, Sydney
- Citizenship: Australia
- Education: Prince Alfred College
- Knight Bachelor: 1968
- Australian of the Year: 1965
- Films: 15
Questions readers ask
What was Robert Helpmann's connection to the Australian Ballet?
He served as co-director of the company beginning in 1965 and became its sole director in 1975, where he created several new ballets.
Was Robert Helpmann strictly a ballet dancer?
No, he was a versatile artist who worked as a stage actor, film actor, choreographer, and director throughout his career.
Achievements
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire — 1964
- Royal Order of the Polar Star
- Knight Bachelor — 1968
- National Order of the Cedar
- Worked as choreographer, stage actor and film actor
