12/28/2025
We lost one of the great ones.
Francis Patrelle created more professional dancers than any teacher I’ve ever known. There are many ballet teachers out there. A few are truly next level. He was singular. His eye, his musicality, his standards, his belief in potential over polish shaped generations of dancers.
He even took a chance on a chubby late bloomer with good feet and an undeniable hunger to move. That faith changed my life. He lives as a vibration in every movement and every accolade I’ve achieved.
I teach ballet now at one of the best schools in the country, and I’m deeply aware that what my students receive is not just from me. They get him. His rigor. His clarity. His insistence on honesty in the work. His belief that dancers are made, not found.
My wish is to be half the educator and mentor he was on his worst day.
With love and gratitude to you Uncle Frankie. Always.
