Here are 1 famous actresses from South Africa died in 1983:
Ida Patlanski (November 17, 2014 Johannesburg-June 1, 1983) also known as Pat Terry-Thomas, Ida Florence Patlansky or Pat Patlanski was a South African actor, dancer and choreographer.
She began her career in the performing arts as a ballet dancer in her hometown of Johannesburg, but eventually turned to acting and choreography. She gained fame for her performances in the musicals "Oklahoma!" and "West Side Story," as well as her work as a choreographer for various productions. Patlanski also appeared in several films, including "Kisses for My President" and "Come Blow Your Horn." In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, she was also an avid supporter of human rights and social justice causes, particularly in relation to the apartheid regime in South Africa.
Patlanski's activism led her to become involved with the Congress of Democrats, an anti-apartheid political party in South Africa. She also participated in numerous protests and demonstrations, using her platform as a performer to raise awareness and promote change. In 1965, Patlanski emigrated to the United States, where she continued to work in theater and film. She appeared on Broadway in "Mame" and "The Rothschilds" and had a recurring role on the television series "Rhoda." She also continued her activism, participating in demonstrations against the Vietnam War and supporting feminist causes. Patlanski passed away in 1983 at the age of 68, but her legacy as a talented performer and dedicated activist lives on.
Additionally, Patlanski was a pioneer of modern dance in South Africa and founded her own dance company, the Pat Terry Dancers, which was the first multi-racial dance troupe in the country. She was also a teacher, founding the Pat Terry School of Dancing and Choreography in Johannesburg. Patlanski's contribution to the arts industry in South Africa was recognized posthumously in 1988 when she was awarded the Order of the Star of South Africa in Gold for her "outstanding contribution to the performing arts." Her dedication to social justice lives on through the Ida Patlanski Trust, which was established in her memory to promote artistic and cultural activities among young people in South Africa.
Patlanski was born to Jewish parents in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1914. From a young age, she showed a talent for dance and began her training with the renowned South African ballerina, Mabel Ryan. She went on to study with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and the Sadler's Wells Ballet (now known as the Royal Ballet) in London.
Patlanski also had a successful career in television, appearing on shows such as "The Andy Williams Show" and "The Dean Martin Show." She was known for her comedic timing and ability to add humor to her dance routines.
In addition to her activism work, Patlanski was also a vocal advocate for the arts. She believed that the arts were not only entertainment but also a critical part of a society's cultural identity. She often spoke out about the need for more funding and support for the arts in South Africa.
Patlanski's impact on the performing arts industry in South Africa and beyond cannot be overstated. She was a trailblazer for women, particularly women of color, in a time when opportunities were limited. Her legacy continues through the many dancers and performers she trained and inspired throughout her life.
In addition to her numerous accomplishments, Ida Patlanski was also a skilled writer and published several pieces throughout her career. She co-wrote an autobiographical play titled "Kicks and Company" and wrote a book entitled "Dancing with South Africa", which gave a first-hand account of her experiences as a performer and activist in the country during the apartheid era. Patlanski was also a talented artist and designer, creating costumes and sets for many of the productions in which she performed or choreographed.
Despite facing numerous obstacles and discrimination throughout her life, Patlanski remained committed to her beliefs and principles. She once said, "I believe in the power of the arts to change hearts and minds, and I will keep fighting for what is right until my last breath." Her legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and activists who strive to make a difference in the world.