Sara Leland, Boston-trained dancer for the New York City Ballet, dies at 79
Updated December 14, 2020, 6:09 p.m.
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Sara Leland, dancing a role created for her in âDances at a Gathering,â with Bart Cook. Ms. Leland, a principal dancer with New York City Ballet who was entrusted with staging George Balanchineâs ballets worldwide even during her performing career, went on to became a beloved ballet master with the company.Steven Caras/New York City Ballet via The New York Times
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Sara Leland began studying dance while growing up in Greater Boston and landed her first important job in 1959 with the Joffrey Ballet in New York City. Back home for a visit the following year, she was attending a class conducted by her mentor, E. Virginia Williams, when she was spotted by Williamsâs former teacher, renowned choreographer George Balanchine.