Martha Graham, while perhaps not a familiar name to all dance students, was undeniably a major force in developing contemporary and modern dance we see today. She was the founder of one of America’s oldest dance companies, creating over 180 dance works and simultaneously challenged physical, artistic and aesthetic conventions. Graham technique is just part of the legacy she has left modern dance, having tackled numerous themes in her work, from the psychological to the political.
April 2016 marks the 90th anniversary of the late Graham’s pioneering dance company. The reach of the company has only increased since her death nearly 25 years ago, with her legacy still living on. The Graham company today is very much audience-led, with its leaders’ artistic decisions reflecting both tradition and a forward-thinking strategy. Whilst, for example, the late Merce Cunningham’s company disbanded following his death, Graham’s work continues to live on.
With the company at 90, it has established itself back at the forefront of modern dance, and continues to secure the Graham legacy for well into the future. Dance works by other artists have been introduced to the company’s repertory, something which has had a strong audience response. Commissioning is now an integral part of the company’s programming vision, combined with Graham classics to achieve a balance of tradition and invention.
Like many arts organisations, the company is adapting to an increasingly digital age, competing with on-demand entertainment options. Online engagement with the company is being translated into filling theatres in order to connect with audiences in non-traditional ways, such as by mixing video footage with Graham’s works to generate original interpretations. Satellite celebrations are also taking place all over the world for the company’s anniversary, such as an art installation in the Paris Opera House, commemorative performances of Graham works by the Paul Taylor Dance Company and L.A. Dance Project, and a five-country tour, which was completed last November.