Happy 117th birthday Martha Graham.
If this is the first you’ve heard of Martha it’s ok. I mean, she is only the most well known choreographer and greatest revolutionary of modern dance in the history of the WORLD.
Just kidding, I know dance isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Men in tights is just not for everyone and I can appreciate that. Personall, I adore ballet and other styles of dance. While I’ve only had a few opportunities to watch more contemporary styles, like “modern dance” that Graham influenced, I’d have to say I like that too.
Martha Graham.
Photo from: spellboundblog.com
Graham’s work is considered revolutionary for the way that she challenged the centuries-old rigidity of ballet. Part of the beauty of ballet is of course it’s tireless demand for perfect form and execution. She certainly wasn’t the first to challenge traditions in dance but she is arguably the most memorable. Her work helped to inspire a movement of American dance and today many of her methods are still routinely taught to modern dance students. Her story is very “under-dog”; she didn’t find her niche in dancing until her 20′s (practically ancient in the professional dance world). Though well-known for her choreography, she once said in an interview that she hoped to be remembered as a dancer. If the animated Google logo commemorating her bday is worth anything, I think it’s safe to say she got her wish. Graham danced well beyond a time when she could be considered young and was reluctant to give her solos to younger dancers. Was she obssessed? Probably. A with the nickname of “The Picasso of Dance”, she probably didn’t know how to be anything else.
And oh yeah, the fashion in dance costumes? Don’t even get me started. #Love.
