OTTAWA, April 17, 2013 —The National Arts Centre (NAC) is mourning the death of Eva von Gencsy cofounder of BJM-Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal, which celebrated its 40^th anniversary in 2012.

Affectionately known as the “Queen of Dance” for more than 40 years, the beloved ballerina matriarch of the Montreal dance community shaped a new genre of dance now known as ballet jazz. Born in Budapest, von Gencsy emigrated from Hungary and performed classical and modern roles with the Winnipeg Ballet (later Royal Winnipeg Ballet). In 1953, she moved to Montreal, joining Les Ballets Chiriaeff, which became Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. Ms. von Gencsy served as artistic director and choreographer at Les Ballets Jazz from 1972 until 1979.

Ms. von Gencsy died in Montreal’s Hotel-Dieu Hospital on Thursday, April 11, a week after suffering a cardiac arrest. She was 89, and is survived by a niece.

“Eva von Gencsy was a hugely generous and influential artist, one whose commitment to her art form inspired generations of dancers and audience members to embrace ballet jazz.  She will be deeply missed by us all,” says Cathy Levy, National Arts Centre Dance Producer. The NAC extends its condolences to BJM and to Ms. Gencsy’s family and friends.

To pay tribute to Ms. Gencsy’s contribution to the cultural life of Canada the NAC has lowered its flag in recognition of her passing.

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For more information, please contact
Rosemary Thompson, Director
Communications and Public Affairs
National Arts Centre
(613) 947-7000, ext. 260
rthompson@nac-cna.ca