Charisse, Calliope (c. 1880–1946)
Charisse, Calliope (c. 1880–1946)
Greek interpretive dancer. Born c. 1880 in Greece; died Sept 6, 1946, in US; children: 11, including Noel Charisse (1905–1983), Nico Charisse (1906–1970, who m. Cyd Charisse); Katerina Charisse (who as Kathryn Etienne taught dance), Pierre Charisse (who had a ballroom act with wife Renée); Helen Charisse (who taught in Indianapolis); André Charisse (actor and ballet master), Rita Charisse (1917–1993, dancer); and Nanette Charisse (taught dance).
Toured Greece performing a mix of ballet and Duncan-style dance; moved to Paris at the start of WWI to perform at benefits (with her 11 children) for American soldiers and their families; immigrated to US (1923) and performed, with children, at numerous venues, including the Hippodrome and on the Keith circuit; performed and choreographed works throughout lifetime that were inspired by Isadora Duncan, her children appearing in Greek chitons and shoulder-length hair.