Choreographer

1946–1996

Miguel Godreau

Photo of Miguel Godreau

Miguel Godreau's sensuous intensity earned him the nickname “the Black Nureyev.” He danced in musicals before joining Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965. Godreau brought audiences to their feet around the world, particularly when he performed the lead role in Geoffrey Holder's The Prodigal Prince, which was created for him.  

Born in Puerto Rico, Godreau grew up in New York City and decided to become a dancer by his mid-teens. He trained at the High School of Performing Arts, the Joffrey Ballet School, and the School of American Ballet. Godreau began performing in musical theater while still in high school and later danced on Broadway and in London. His musical theater credits included Wonderland; a 1964 World's Fair show choreographed by Michael Kidd; and Dear World, a 1969 musical starring Angela Lansbury. He also danced on television and in films, including Billie, Ladies Only, Swashbuckler, and Altered States

Godreau danced with Donald McKayle, the Harkness Ballet, and the Cullberg Ballet in Sweden. He formed a company of his own in the late 1960s. Godreau also choreographed and rehearsed cabaret acts in Europe and Japan. His last performing job was with Cirque du Soleil in 1993 and1994. Godreau taught at The Ailey School, Broadway Dance Center, and Steps on Broadway in the 1980s and ’90s.