Postmodern choreographers like , , and revolutionized dance in the late 20th century. They blended different styles, incorporated everyday movements, and pushed artistic boundaries, creating works that were both accessible and thought-provoking.
These innovators left a lasting impact on contemporary dance. They blurred lines between art forms, emphasized , and used dance as a medium for social commentary. Their legacies continue to inspire new generations of dancers and choreographers worldwide.
Postmodern Choreographers
Key postmodern choreographers and works
Top images from around the web for Key postmodern choreographers and works
Mark Morris Dance Group – review | PhcityonWeb View original
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Estreia a remontagem de “A Sagração da Primavera”, de Pina Bausch - Correio Nagô View original
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Twyla Tharp – Stále zářící americká star - Taneční aktuality View original
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Mark Morris Dance Group – review | PhcityonWeb View original
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Estreia a remontagem de “A Sagração da Primavera”, de Pina Bausch - Correio Nagô View original
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Top images from around the web for Key postmodern choreographers and works
Mark Morris Dance Group – review | PhcityonWeb View original
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Estreia a remontagem de “A Sagração da Primavera”, de Pina Bausch - Correio Nagô View original
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Twyla Tharp – Stále zářící americká star - Taneční aktuality View original
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Mark Morris Dance Group – review | PhcityonWeb View original
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Estreia a remontagem de “A Sagração da Primavera”, de Pina Bausch - Correio Nagô View original
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Pina Bausch
German choreographer and dancer who founded
Pioneered the () style blending dance, theater, and everyday movements
Significant works include "" (1975) exploring themes of sacrifice and ritual, "" (1978) delving into loneliness and human connection, and "" (1978) examining relationships across generations
Twyla Tharp
American dancer, choreographer, and author who established the
Known for her fusion of classical ballet and modern dance techniques, incorporating popular music (Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra) and cultural references
Notable works include "" (1973) set to Beach Boys music, "" (1976) showcasing technical virtuosity, and "" (1986) featuring athletic and dynamic movement
Mark Morris
American choreographer, dancer, and opera director who founded the
Recognized for his , often collaborating with (Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax)
Significant works include "" (1988) set to Handel's oratorio, "" (1991) a witty retelling of "The Nutcracker," and "" (1989) exploring gender roles in the opera
Approaches in postmodern choreography
Pina Bausch
Developed Tanztheater (dance theater) combining elements of dance, theater, and everyday movements
Explored complex human emotions (desire, fear, loneliness), relationships, and social issues through abstract and surreal choreography
Incorporated spoken word, singing, and unconventional props (dirt, water, flowers) to create immersive environments
Twyla Tharp
Blended classical ballet and modern dance techniques, emphasizing athleticism and technical virtuosity
Incorporated popular music (Beach Boys, David Byrne) and cultural references to create accessible and engaging works
Collaborated with artists from diverse disciplines (Miloš Forman, Philip Glass) to push the boundaries of dance
Mark Morris
Known for his musical sensitivity and frequent collaborations with live musicians (Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax)
Infused his choreography with humor, wit, and playfulness, often subverting traditional gender roles and expectations
Drew inspiration from a wide range of musical sources (baroque, classical, folk) to create dynamic and expressive works
Impact and Legacy
Influence on contemporary dance
Blurred boundaries between dance and other art forms, encouraging (theater, music, visual arts)
Emphasized individual expression and diversity, rejecting strict codified techniques in favor of a wide range of
Increased focus on conceptual and thematic content, using dance as a medium for social and political commentary and exploring personal narratives and experiences
Legacies of postmodern choreographers
Expanded the definition and possibilities of dance, challenging traditional notions of choreography and performance
Inspired future generations of choreographers and dancers, paving the way for new artistic voices and perspectives
Established influential dance companies (Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch, Twyla Tharp Dance Company, Mark Morris Dance Group) and institutions, providing platforms for the creation and presentation of new works and fostering international exchange and collaboration in the dance community