Farewell, Stefan Wenta (1929-2022)

Stephan Wenta and dancers in a rehearsal.

The Polish-American dancer and choreographer, Stefan Wenta, passed away in August 2022. With a career spanning two continents, Stefan’s passing was not only a great loss to the Los Angeles dance community, but to Polish culture as well.

In his earlier years, Stefan would find himself as a principal dancer and choreographer for the Warsaw Opera Ballet. He later received a scholarship to study in Paris alongside other Polish notables like Krzysztof Komeda. During his time in Paris he became a partner of the Paris Opera’s prima-ballerinas and a premier dancer of the Theatre d’Art du Ballet. His period with Theatre d’Art du Ballet allowed him to perform in many countries throughout Asia and all over Europe.

Later, in 1960, Stefan moved to America and earned the Artistic Director position of the Western Ballet of Los Angeles, and afterward the Wenta Ballet of Los Angeles. Still living in America, Stefan continued to create choreography for ballet in Poland at the Teatr Syrena in Warsaw or Music Theater in Gdynia. In 1970, he would become one of the founding members of a non-profit dedicated to promoting Polish culture in Southern California, the Modjeska Club. On August 6, 2010, the organization held a gathering to recognize Mr. Wenta with a Certificate of Appreciation for his contributions to Polish culture and choreographic achievements. Over 50 members congregated at the Ford Amphitheater for a brief ceremony and the premiere of his work set on the Luminario Ballet of Los Angeles, “Fantasy on Polish Airs.”

“Until we Waltz again, rest in peace, Stefan.”
-Stephanie Cheung

Since teaching at MiMoDa studio Hollywood, Stefan inspired so many dancers and encouraged them to continue. Many of his students spoke of the impact he had on their journey through dance. They remember his guidance and passion teaching them about art, expression, and the sensitivity of dance.

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