The Martha Graham Dance Company presents “Essential Graham, The Classic Works of Martha Graham”, at The Ridgefield Playhouse
Martha Graham’s impact on dance was staggering and often compared to that of Picasso’s on painting, Stravinsky’s on music, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s on architecture. Her contributions transformed the art form, revitalizing and expanding dance around the world. In her search to express herself freely and honestly, she created the Martha Graham Dance Company, one of the oldest dance troupes in America.
Her pupils included such greats as Alvin Ailey, Twyla Tharp, Paul Taylor, Merce Cunningham, and countless other performers, actors, and dancers. She collaborated with some of the foremost artists of her time including the composer Aaron Copland and the sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Although she died in 1991 at the age of 96, her works live on through The Martha Graham Dance Company, who will perform Ms. Graham’s celebrated dance pieces as part of “Essential Graham, the Classic Works of Martha Graham” on Friday, March 5, 7:30 p.m. at The Ridgefield Playhouse.
This new style of contextual programming brings audiences more points of access to Graham’s innovations and unique contributions to American dance and theater. “Essential Graham” performances are often narrated, may include projections, and with the flow of the classic Graham dances, provide an overview of Graham’s career and impact on 20th Century art. Media sponsor is WMNR Fine Arts Radio.
Needless to say, Martha Graham is considered the “Mother of Modern Dance”. Founded in 1926, the Martha Graham Dance Company is the oldest and one of the most celebrated contemporary dance companies in America. The company has received international acclaim from audiences in more than 50 countries. The Washington Post labeled the Martha Graham Dance Company “one of the seven wonders of the artistic universe”.
Though Martha Graham is known as the company’s most famous dancer, having performed for four decades, the Company has served as a training ground for some of modern dance’s most famous dancers and choreographers including Merce Cunningham, Erick Hawkins, Paul Taylor and Jacqulyn Buglisi. Stars who have performed with the Martha Graham Dance Company include Mikhail Baryshnikov, Margot Fonteyn and Liza Minnelli.
“Essential Graham, The Classic Works of Martha Graham” provides an opportunity to experience a quintessential American art form. For tickets ($55) and information about The Ridgefield Playhouse, call or visit the box office at 203-438-5795, 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT, or buy tickets online at www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org.
