Royes Fernandez | |
|---|---|
 Fernandez in 1961 | |
| Born | Royes Emanuel Fernandez July 15, 1929 New Orleans, Louisiana, US |
| Died | March 3, 1980 (aged 50) New York City, US |
| Occupation | Ballet dancer |
| Years active | 1944–1980 |
Royes Emanuel Fernandez (July 15, 1929 – March 3, 1980) was an American ballet dancer who was a soloist, then principal dancer for American Ballet Theatre (ABT).
Fernandez gained renown for his leading roles in Giselle, La Sylphide, and Swan Lake. Partnering such noted prima ballerinas as Alicia Markova and Margot Fonteyn, Fernandez captivated audiences with his classical style and technical virtuosity. He also gave remarkable performances in such modern ballets as Lilac Garden, Études, and Theme and Variations. After his last appearance with ABT, Fernandez taught at the University of South Florida in Tampa before becoming a professor of dance at the College of the Arts at the State University of New York at Purchase. He was also an instructor at the Ballet Theatre School.