Tina Ramirez Cause of Death

Venezuelan-born American dancer and Choreographer, Ernestina Ramirez has died. She was 92 years old.

She died on September 6, at her home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Her cause of death is unknown.

Tina Ramirez’s vision for Ballet Hispanico Company gave the contemporary Hispanic culture its place in American dance, much as Alvin Ailey did for the Black community.

During her 39 years as Artistic Director, she invited 50 choreographers from diverse backgrounds to provide a modern-day interpretation of Spanish-speaking cultures, drawing on the versatility of her dancers in ballet, modern dance, jazz, ethnic and other dance techniques.

Ramirez’s contribution as an educator is in many ways as important as her legacy as an artist and director. The Ballet Hispanico School of Dance has grown to train hundreds of students year-round. To ensure access for children of all backgrounds, the school provides scholarship support, which has grown to cover $100,000 per year.