Many exceptional dancers have graced dance floors with their talents. Movies and clips of these dancers show us the extent of their love of and devotion to their particular styles of dance. Though not complete, the following list highlights some of the best dancers of the past and present.
1. Anna Pavlova (1881-1931)
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A famous Russian ballet dancer, Anna Pavlova is best known for changing the ideals for ballet dancers, as she was small and thin, not the preferred body of a ballerina during her time. She is also credited for creating the modern pointe shoe.
2. Mikhail Baryshnikov (1948-present)
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Known as the best living male ballet dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov is a famous Russian dancer. He has had roles in film, as he starred in the last season of Sex and the City.
3. Michael Jackson (1958-2009)
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Pop star of the 1980s, Michael Jackson wowed audiences with eye-popping dance moves, notably one called the "moonwalk." Michael displayed an amazing talent for rhythm and dance at a very young age.
4. Sammy Davis, Jr, (1925-1990)
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An American dancer, Sammy Davis, Jr. was an entertainer remembered mostly for his tap dancing ability. He began tap dancing at the age of four.
5. Martha Graham (1894-1991)
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Martha Graham was an American dancer and choreographer. She is known as the pioneer of modern dance. She dared to introduce new, modern dance moves to the world.
6. Fred Astaire (1899-1987)
Flickr user EmMe09
Fred Astaire was a famous American film and Broadway dancer. He is well-known for starring with Ginger Rogers in musical films.
7. Gregory Hines (1946-2003)
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Gregory Hines was an American dancer mostly known for his outstanding tap dancing abilities. He appeared in several dance movies, including White Nights and Tap.
8. John Travolta (1954-present)
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John Travolta, with his slick dance moves, gained fame through his dancing roles in Saturday Night Fever and Grease.
9. Gene Kelly (1912-1996)
Flickr user EmMe09
An American dancer, Gene Kelly is remembered for his highly energetic and athletic dancing style. He is well-known for his performance in Singin' in the Rain.
10. Patrick Swayze (1952-2009)
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Patrick Swayze was a well-known American dancer and actor. He starred as a dance instructor in the popular movie Dirty Dancing.
