Uldis Ozols
1945
Choreographer
Born 2 May 1945 in Jelgava. Started dancing at an early age. Learned the basics of Latvian folk dance in the Diždancis (Grand Dance) Jelgava Cultural Centre folk-dance ensemble led by his father Vilis, as a dancer (from 1976), later as assistant director. Studied hydrology at the Kandava Soviet State Technical College (1970–1974).
Gained his vocational education in dance at the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian State Conservatoire, Department of Choreography (1981–1986). In 1983, he took over the directorship of the Diždancis (Grand Dance) folk-dance ensemble (1983–1993) and also temporarily led the Ritums (Passage) folk-dance ensemble (1992–1993).
Has created many new dances and folk-dance arrangements, including Es ar savu cisu maisu (I Danced with my Pillow), Caur sidraba birzi gāju (I Wandered through the Birch Grove), Polka mazurka, Jelgavas kadriļa, (The Jelgava Quadrille). His choreography has received awards in new-dance competitions, as well as being included in performances at dance celebrations and other dance concerts – in 1991, his Kurzemes danču virkne (Kurzeme Dance Series) received 2nd prize in the new-dance competition and was included in the 11th Dance Celebration.
A Chief choreographer at the 10th and 11th Dance Celebrations and Chief choreographer for Kuldiga District dance groups (1988–1990).
