Rudolf Nureyev, 54, (1938-1993) Soviet Ballet dancer

Rudolf Khametovich Nureyev, 54, (17th March 1938 - 6th January 1993) was a Soviet ballet dancer and choreographer. He was director of the Paris Opera Ballet from 1983 to 1989 and its chief choreographer until October 1992. Named Lord of the Dance, Nureyev is regarded as one of ballet’s most gifted male dancers. He died of AIDS.