In memory of Patrick Swayze 1952 – 2009

The dance world is mourning yet another great, Patrick Swayze, who sadly lost his battle with cancer this week.

Swayze’s mother was a dance instructor, dancer and choreographer and he followed in her footsteps by completing formal dance training at Harkness Ballet and Joffrey ballet schools.  He was also a keen athlete and gymnast.

Probably best known for his role as dance instructor, Johnny Castle in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing, Swayze was nominated for a Golden Globe Award  and also sang one of the songs on the soundtrack, She’s like the Wind.

Patrick Swayze’s wife of 33 years, Lisa Niemi, also a dancer and an actress, supported him through the illness; our thoughts go out to her and to his family.