What's the secret to 109-year-old dancer Eileen Kramer's longevity

Eileen Kramer is a 109-year-old ballerina originally from Australia. She has experienced changes and development of entire eras. But she has not stopped following her calling – to dance and prove that art knows no boundaries. Including age limits.

For 84 years Eileen’s passion for plasticity and movement has not faded. Even young people can envy her productivity. The ballerina continues to dance, give master classes, write books and star in music videos. We tell you what her secret is.

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Life story

Surprisingly, but until the age of 24, Eileen did not even think about dancing. The girl worked as a ticket-taker in a movie theater, sometimes acted as a model for artists, and in her spare time she was fond of music.

Eileen’s life was turned upside down by the performance of Gertrude Bodenweiser’s troupe. The choreographer was known for her innovative approach to dance. She departed from classical ballet techniques, focusing on expression and emotional conveyance through movement.

Kramer decided to try her luck and join the company. The answer did not take long – the girl was immediately accepted for classes. After three years of hard work, she became a full-fledged member of the troupe and continued to hone her skills. After 13 years, Eileen decided to perform solo. During this period, she actively promoted in different parts of the world: France, the United States, India.

Then the ballerina met Indian film director Baruch Shadmi. The couple lived together for 10 years. Alas, the man had a stroke.

After the death of her lover, Eileen began to create costumes and work on new theater projects. In 2013, she returned to Australia.

Here Eileen continued to be an active artist, conquering the stage with her unique art and always impressing the audience. At the age of 99, she has performed three major numbers at the National Institute of Dramatic Art and independent theaters. She has participated in two major dance festivals in Adelaide and Brisbane, appeared in films, given many small performances and written five books.

Eileen Kramer Now

Eileen’s love of life knows no bounds. She continues to this day to demonstrate incredible strength and fortitude. On November 8, 2023, she turned 109 years old. The ballerina has to move around in a wheelchair due to blindness in one eye and difficulties in maintaining balance. However, these factors have not been an obstacle for her. She still leads an active life and remains optimistic.

At her birthday celebration, Eileen decided to give a brush and hand dance workshop to her fans and friends. Her ability to control every movement, the fluidity of the lines and the gracefulness of the turning of her wrists make you forget her age. In that moment, the viewer sees only the beauty and grace she embodies.

The secret of Eileen Kramer’s longevity

What gives this amazing woman so much energy to work, socialize and be active? Eileen herself believes that her daily rituals and philosophy of life contribute to her remarkable health and strength.

The ballerina stays true to her morning exercises. She does most of them in bed. But she still has to get up to do a plié. Some of the leg exercises in classical ballet are very good for strengthening the feet.

Eileen’s love of drawing also plays an important role in her longevity. She compares the process to dancing. Drawing is one way to explore the boundaries of one’s creativity, where each stroke of a brush or pencil carries a part of one’s soul. Eileen also believes that one should focus more on life. That is how it can be filled with colors, become more interesting and give energy.

The secret of her longevity lies in simple truths: absence of bad habits, healthy diet and movement that brings joy. Eileen also actively uses her cell phone and social networks to stay in touch with the world around her.

The ballerina doesn’t forget about her appearance either. She regularly uses lipstick, eye shadow and tries to wear beautiful clothes. This helps to feel young and maintain inner harmony.

Eileen Kramer’s story is a shining example of how keeping active, loving activities and striving for self-expression can provide enjoyment for years to come.

Her passion for dancing, creating and connecting with the world shows that finding joy in everyday activities is an essential component of a happy life. Eileen not only follows her principles, but inspires us to do the same, reminding us that age is just a number. True youth and vitality are within.