Remembering Ballet Star Frederic Franklin

02:33

May 06, 2013

This 1939 photo supplied by Geller/Goldfine Productions shows Frederic Franklin, center background, George Zoritch, center, and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo in their production of "Rouge et Noir," which was choreographed by Leonide Massine. Franklin died Saturday at the age of 98. (AP)

Frederic Franklin, who performed well into his 90s, is being remembered today.

Known simply as "Freddie" the ballet world, Franklin got his start in dance in his native England.

But he became a star with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and his famed partnership with Russian prima ballerina Alexandra Danilova, who upon meeting him warned him "Young man, if you are going to dance with me, you must learn where my curves are." As the New York Times in its obituary today put it, he did learn, and they danced together for many years. His charm, grace and good humor were on display at Jacob's Pillow in 2006 when Here & Now's Lynn Menegon sat down with him.

Here & Now: Listen to our 2006 interview With Freddie Franklin
Washington Post: Frederic Franklin Obit
YouTube: Video Of Franklin & Danilova Dancing One of Their Famous Duets

This segment aired on May 6, 2013.