Maurice Béjart, a renowned ballet dancer and choreographer, was born in France but later acquired Swiss citizenship posthumously. Throughout his illustrious career, he resided in various cities, including Paris, Brussels, and Lausanne, solidifying his reputation as a master choreographer. His travels with the ballet company he established in Belgium in 1960, "Ballet of the 20th Century", took him to numerous stages around the world, showcasing his exceptional artistry.
In addition to his touring achievements, Béjart founded multiple dance schools, one of which, the Rudra School in Lausanne, remains operational to this day and is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious professional dance institutions globally. His dedication to the arts earned him a prestigious appointment to the Académie des Beaux Arts, a position he held from 1994 until his passing.