Louise Nadeau.

Pacific Northwest Ballet's Louise Nadeau is an unforgettable ballerina, with stunning line and breathtaking emotional range. Artistic director Peter Boal called her performances "off the scale." He also said, "Certain dancers live onstage in the moment: Nureyev was one, Louise is another."

Nadeau performed leading roles in more than 80 ballets during her time at PNB, mostly under Kent Stowell and Francia Russell's direction. Her unabashed willingness to inhabit a role drew audiences into her performances. "So much of telling a story is in the details," says Nadeau, 45. "You can't always be a locomotive barreling down the tracks. You need those highs and lows and not be afraid of making a fool out of yourself."

Nadeau's June 7 farewell celebrated her 19-year career with the company, 17 years as a principal. Her debut in Forsythe's Urlicht was a transcendent moment--the result of working "together one last time in a way that both of us treasure," says partner Olivier Wevers.

Nadeau's sublime performance quality is admired by younger company members. "She has the dream facility, with extensions and feet you'd die for," says Jessika Anspach. "But Louise also brings depth to every role, unveiling each layer like a rose blooming."

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Summing up, Nadeau says: "I have ended my career happily, knowing that I was truthful in my work. For 40 years, I've been on hyper drive."

What's next? Nadeau, who has a 12-year-old daughter, will be pursuing her newest passion landscape photography. "I still need beauty in my life."