Chase, Lucia (1907-1986)

US ballet dancer and ballet company administrator. She took ballet lessons with Mikhail Mordkin and performed in his company from 1937-40. A dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, she became codirector in 1944, helping it become one of the world's greatest dance troupes.

She was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, and at first pursued a career in theatre and music. She retired in 1980.