Rita Sangalli

Rita Sangalli (20 August 1849 – 3 November 1909) was an Italian ballet dancer born in Antegnate who became a notable presence on the Broadway stage between 1866 and 1869. Her career spanned multiple countries and decades, taking her from the opera houses of Italy and England to the stages of Paris and New York.

Sangalli began her training and early performances in the Italian provinces of Asti, Piacenza, and Turin. Her professional debut came in 1865 at Milan's La Scala, where she appeared in Paul Taglioni's Flik and Flok. Following that engagement, she was hired to perform at Her Majesty's Theatre in London.

Her American career included Broadway appearances in two productions: Flick Flock, in which she starred, and The Black Crook, in which she also appeared. These engagements took place during her Broadway years from 1866 to 1869.

Sangalli later joined the Paris Opera Ballet in 1872, the same year she danced the principal role in a successful revival of La source. During her tenure with the company, she performed in several premieres, including the role of Sylvia on 14 June 1876, Yedda in 1879, and Namouna on 6 March 1882. She retired from the Paris Opera Ballet in 1884.

In August 1901, Sangalli appeared alongside Marie Bonfanti at the Metropolitan Opera House during the inaugural season of ballet at that venue. She died in Carpesino d'Arcellasco, Italy, on 3 November 1909.