JEAN-LÉON DESTINÉ

Jean-Léon Destiné and Sabine L. Philippe, New York, April 12, 2005

JEAN-LÉON DESTINÉ and his exciting Dance Company have presented their programs to capacity audiences in the foremost concert halls of Europe, the Orient and America; starring in major TV programs and on Broadway.

From the rich folk-dance materials to his mountainous country, Haiti, and the Caribbean islands, and from the very distinctive dances which incorporate African and European influences, Destiné has created a repertory which is purely ethnic, yet brilliantly theatrical. 

Critical Acclaim

"Jean-Léon Destiné is not only a splendid dancer but also an astute choreographer and first-rate director of a first class ensemble."

"...one of the finest dancers of our day, ethnic or otherwise."

-Walter Terry, New York Dance Critic

"Mr. Destiné himself is about the best national or folk dancer I recall having seen...His technique is faultless and more than that he has the grace, spirit and style which distinguishes him as a star...   He is supported by lively and disciplined young dancers."

-The Gazette, Montreal

"The quality of his dance troupe lies mainly in its authenticity and its sincerity of expression.  Jean-Léon Destiné dances remarkably, with agility and passion.  His dances, ancient and modern, seem to be the result of years of scrupulous study."

-La Danse, Paris

"An exciting theatre experience... a performance artistically perfect."

-Il Corriere di Trieste, Italy

The first performance night of Destiné's Dance Troupe here was, as expected, a tremendous success.  The exuberant numbers of a two-hour program went by in no time as each of them closed amidst enthusiastic plaudits of the packed crowd."

-The Mainichi, Tokyo

"Jean-Léon Destiné and Company achieved the largest audience of the Boston Dance Theatre series...  As a dancer, Mr. Destiné combines the finesse of the artist with the supple ease and ability of the peasant."

-Christian Science Monitor, Boston

"It is an impassioned poem of movement that in its stark simplicity represents striking use of the cinema art."

-The New York Times

"The dancer Jean-Léon Destiné and his sensational Haitian Troupe have conducted the spectators through a magnificent trip in the enchanted islands of the Antilles.  This colorful, graceful and exciting attraction in which the folklore of Haiti is placed on a high and artistic level is an experience never to be forgotten."

-La Lanterne, Brussels