Léon Espinosa

Léon Espinosa (1825–1904) was a Dutch-Spanish ballet dancer. He became the first in a long line of dancers and dance teachers, making the name Espinosa "recognised worldwide as one of the most important influences in the development of dance and training of dancers."

Early life Espinosa's early interest in dance was encouraged by a succession of outstanding teachers including Jean Coralli, Filippo Taglioni, and Jules Perrot during his time at the Paris Opéra Ballet.

Personal life and Death In 1825,

Espinosa married and had six children (Eduard, Marius, Leo, Judith, Ray, and Lea), all of whom became dancers and dance teachers. He also established the Association for Operatic Dancing (later the Royal Academy of Dance), as well as the British Ballet Organization.

Both Judith and Lea ran ballet schools in London and overseas. They also served as major examiners for the Royal Academy of Dance.

In 1872, Espinosa moved to London where he continued to dance and eventually opened a dance school.