Karen Kain: Canada's Prima Ballerina

by Melanie Jones

One of Canada's best-loved and most respected dancers, Karen Kain's rise to ballet stardom is an inspirational story of dedication and passion. Now a national treasure, Karen Kain brought Canadian dance to the world's stage in the 1970s. This is a story of artistry and ambition - the joys and the sacrifices of a prima ballerina.

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Sharon Ouderkirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent introductory book to the amazing life of Karen Kain, who is a shining example of the discipline and commitment that is required to be a great artist. I sat up to midnight because I was so fascinated by the story, which may not seem like much to people, but I haven't seen midnight in many years. This biography is gently written, so the bad parts of Kain's journey is only hinted at, but Kain's public persona has always been that of a lady, so the style seems appropriate to me.
The story also deals with the formation of the National Ballet of Canada, a story that is inextricably tied to Kain's own life, and work: she is now the Artistic Director of the company. By all accounts, she has made a splendid success of that role too, raising funds that have exceeded all previous records.
On a personal note, I became aware of Kain, back in 1977 when she was the guest speaker at an International Girl Guide camp that I attended in Cape Breton. She made an enormous impression on me, (I was about 14), and I have followed her career ever since that time. I have also had the thrill of watching some of her performances at what was then the O'Keefe Center in Toronto. I have often found it to be the case that reading a biography of someone you admire results in admiring them a little less. I am glad to report that I now admire Kain even more.

[Morticia · Rating 3 out of 5]

A delight to read more into the work it took for Karen Kain to succeed in the Canadian National Ballet world.