Jon Trimmer in Giselle. Image courtesy of Royal New Zealand Ballet. Photo: Supplied / Royal New Zealand Ballet
This week saw the passing of a legend in the arts in Aotearoa. Sir Jon Trimmer, arguably New Zealand’s most beloved dancer has died aged 84.
With the Royal New Zealand Ballet since 1958, with stints at the likes of Sadler Wells, Trimmer’s was a rare international reputation. In interview he recalls being named in the 1970s as one of the seven best dancers in the world, next to Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn, who he once danced with. Yet Sir Jon preferred New Zealand best, touring the country for most of his life, much of the time with fellow dancer and later ballet mistress Lady Jacqui Trimmer. This has endeared him to as many New Zealanders as have been to a ballet. He was our Sir Jon.
For Culture 101’s Mark Amery that connection was also local. Trimmer was, says Amery, not only their shared home of Paekākāriki’s most famous citizen, but also one of its most cherished. He describes him as a constant joyous and charming village presence, there for conversation al fresco at local cafe the Perching Parrot. Trimmer was also a passionate gardener, painter and potter, exhibiting frequently locally.
With him to the end in Paekākāriki alongside his wife Lady Jacqui was Sir Jon’s older sister Coral Trimmer. Now aged 93, Coral is of similar enduring stock. An acclaimed jazz and classical musician, she started playing the harmonica 88 years ago, and continues to play. Mark Amery spoke to Coral at home about Jon’s passing.
John’s ability to connect with young and old alike is reflected in an item we’re also able to share. In 2017 Sir Jon was joined at his home by two Year Eight boys from neighbouring Paekākāriki School: Markyrious Farrell and Flynn Conroy-Rutten, recording for their school radio show.
At the time Sir Jon aged 77 was still dancing,: touring nationally with Cinderella. He was to retire a year later after two further productions, Don Quixote and Romeo and Julliet.
Photo: supplied
