Pavlova 2012

2012 marks the centenary of Anna Pavlova making Ivy House her home. The London Jewish Cultural Centre commemorated the contribution she made both to London life and the world of classical dance in a season of special events including workshops, talks and performances, highlighting her continuing inspiration.

Anna Pavlova lived at Ivy House from 1912 until her death in 1931. She created a lively cultural haven here, away from the bustle of city life. She lived life to the full, rehearsing in her specially designed studio, training young dancers, landscaping the gardens and entertaining the most famous artistes of the day at her extraordinary soirees and garden parties. Her style and talent were famed throughout the world and she remains one of the outstanding figures in the history of ballet.

Our celebration began in February on a lighter note with the launch of a worldwide competition to find the perfect Pavlova recipe. Our thanks to internationally renowned chef Peter Gordon who judged the competition and created the winning dessert in his restaurant, and to the winner Jackie Kent for her Hazelnut and Chocolate Pavlova with Creamy Mascarpone and Baileys Filling Topped with Raspberries and Chocolate.

Archive photographs of Pavlova were displayed in Ivy House from June to September, Pavlova roses were exhibited at the Chelsea Flower Show (Peter Beales stand) in May & the British Film Institute screened a special celebration of Pavlova in film in August.

Picture Credits: From a private collection

Click here to read more about Anna Pavlova & Ivy House