Margherita Wallmann: A Legendary Visionary in Ballet and Opera

Margherita Wallmann, also referred to as Margarethe or Margarita Wallmann, was a pioneering Austrian ballerina, choreographer, stage designer, and opera director. Born on June 22, 1904, in Berlin, Germany, she became an influential figure in the world of dance and opera. With an exceptional career spanning continents, Wallmann’s work significantly impacted the artistic landscape of the 20th century.

Early Life and Education

Wallmann’s journey into the world of dance began with classical training under the tutelage of Eugenia Eduardowa in Berlin. She further honed her skills in Munich with Heinrich Kröller and Anna Ornelli, before attending Mary Wigman’s ballet school in Dresden in 1923. Her early exposure to Ausdruckstanz, or expressionist dance, shaped her innovative approach to choreography and performance.

A crucial aspect of Wallmann’s journey was her unique Human Design, which characterized her as a Manifestor with Emotional Authority. Her strategy to inform and her 3/5 profile signified a life of trial, error, and profound influence. The Manifestor type, known for initiating and impacting others, perfectly aligned with Wallmann’s trailblazing endeavors in dance and opera.

Professional Milestones

In 1928, Wallmann traveled to New York, where she lectured on Ausdruckstanz, further establishing her reputation as a dance innovator. By 1929, she became the head of the Wigman School in Berlin, a testament to her leadership and creative vision. The following year, she founded her own dance company, Tänzer-Kollektiv, showcasing her ability to create and lead new artistic movements.

Wallmann’s Incarnation Cross, the Right Angle Cross of The Vessel of Love, highlighted her innate ability to channel love and creativity into her work. This cross, driven by the energies of 15/10 and 25/46, influenced her capacity to nurture and expand the artistic talents of those around her, a quality that resonated with her role as a teacher and mentor.

International Influence and Challenges

In 1933, Wallmann moved to Vienna, where she became a ballet master at the Vienna State Opera and head of its ballet school in 1934. However, the Anschluss in 1938 forced her to leave due to her “non-aryan” descent. Despite this setback, Wallmann’s resilience led her to Buenos Aires, where she served as the ballet director at the Teatro Colón, emerging as a leading figure in Argentine dance.

Her Emotional Authority in Human Design emphasized her capacity to navigate life’s challenges with sensitivity and emotional intelligence. This inner strength was pivotal during times of adversity, allowing her to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and reinvention.

Return to Europe and Opera Directing

In 1949, Wallmann returned to Europe, taking on the role of ballet director at La Scala in Milan. By 1952, her focus shifted primarily to directing operas, where she collaborated closely with composer Francis Poulenc during the creation of “Dialogues des Carmélites.” Wallmann described Poulenc as “an elder brother,” reflecting the deep personal and professional bonds she formed throughout her career.

Her Human Design channels, including the 25-51, 12-22, and 35-36, underscored her ability to initiate transformative experiences for audiences and collaborators alike. These channels supported her in revolutionizing opera productions, infusing them with emotional depth and artistic innovation.

Legacy and Final Years

Margherita Wallmann’s legacy is characterized by her groundbreaking contributions to both ballet and opera. Returning to the Vienna State Opera in 1957, she continued to stage various productions, leaving an indelible mark on the institution she once called home. Wallmann passed away in Monte Carlo on May 2, 1992, at the age of 87, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic excellence and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Margherita Wallmann’s Human Design Type?

Margherita Wallmann was a Manifestor, a type known for their ability to initiate and impact others significantly. Her Manifestor energy complemented her role as a pioneer in the fields of dance and opera.

How did Wallmann’s Emotional Authority influence her career?

Wallmann’s Emotional Authority allowed her to navigate challenges with sensitivity and intuition, enabling her to make impactful decisions and create emotionally resonant performances.

What was Wallmann’s Incarnation Cross?

Her Incarnation Cross was the Right Angle Cross of The Vessel of Love, which emphasized her capacity to infuse love and creativity into her work, nurturing the talents of others.

How did Wallmann’s Human Design channels influence her artistic work?

Her channels, including 25-51, 12-22, and 35-36, supported her ability to initiate transformative experiences, revolutionizing ballet and opera productions with emotional depth and innovation.

Where can we see Wallmann’s influence today?

Wallmann’s influence remains evident in the continued evolution of expressive dance forms and the innovative staging of operas. Her legacy inspires dancers and directors to embrace creativity and emotional expression in their work.