George Verdak

George C. Verdak (1923 – September 15, 1993) was an American ballet dancer, teacher, and director. He is best known for dancing with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and for his work as a faculty member at Butler University. Verdak was born in Chicago, Illinois, and danced with the Chicago Repertory Ballet after attending the Art Institute in Chicago. He danced with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo for nine years before its disbandment in 1952. He spent time in Minneapolis, Minnesota, teaching dance, performing, and choreographing for the St. Paul Civic Opera Company. Verdak began work at Butler University in 1959 where he was the chairman of the dance department and directed the Butler Ballet Company. He was also awarded an honorary doctorate by the university. Verdak founded the Indianapolis Ballet Theater where he created more than 100 ballets. His choreography and set work are still used today, and the George Verdak Trust provides sets and scenery for ballets around the United States.