Ballet Dancer and Artistic Director
Born in 1951
Karen Kain joined the National Ballet of Canada in 1969 at the age of 18 as a member of the Corps de Ballet and quickly rose to become one of its most celebrated Principal Dancers. Her exceptional talent captivated audiences internationally and she became known as one of the best classical dancers of her time. In 2005 she was appointed Artistic Director of the National Ballet, a position she would hold until 2021 making her the longest serving Artistic Director since the National Ballet’s founder, Celia Franca.
Kain’s commitment to artistic excellence, nurturing emerging talent, and expanding the reach of ballet has elevated the city’s cultural landscape, ensuring a legacy of dance that will inspire generations to come.
Explore more women who transformed Toronto.
The 52: Stories of Women Who Transformed Toronto