Instinct For Success: Arnold Spohr and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet

By Michael Crabb
Arnold Spohr is outspoken, ambitious, demanding, uncompromising and even combative when it comes to dealing with those whose dedication to the arts falls short of his own. He’s also one of the most honoured, respected and loved figures in the history of Canadian dance. Artistic Director of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet for 30 years, Spohr put the RWB firmly on the national and international map. He engaged the best choreographers and toured the RWB extensively. A legend in his own time, Arnold Spohr’s contribution to the artistic life of Canada is ultimately immeasurable.

About the Author
Michael Crabb has reviewed dance for The Toronto Star, was the editor of Dance in Canada magazine and has been a contributor to several periodicals including The Dancing Times (UK) and Tanz Aktuel (Germany). He is a regular columnist for Dance International and is the dance critic for The National Post. Crabb also has been a producer and on-air dance reporter for CBC Radio and formerly hosted CBC’s The Arts Report. He is the co-author of Dance Today in Canada (Simon & Pierre, 1977) and the editor of Visions: Ballet and Its Future (Simon & Pierre, 1978).