Nov 3rd, 2009 · The movie about Michael Jackson's preparation for a series of concerts in London, This Is It, mixes rehearsal footage with production elements from the planned shows. Dancer and choreographer Debbie Allen loved the film.
Sep 23rd, 2009 · It's hard to imagine a bigger or more highly choreographed spectacle than last year's Olympics in Beijing. But in some ways, China is trying to outdo itself with its 60th celebration of the founding of the People's Republic. Although this time, the event is aimed at the domestic audience.
Sep 21st, 2009 · As a child, choreographer Bill T. Jones says he was only allowed to love one white man unconditionally: Abraham Lincoln. Now, he has created a piece for the Ravinia Festival to commemorate the bicentennial of Lincoln's birth, called "Fondly Do We Hope Fervently Do We Pray."
Sep 15th, 2009 · Beethoven pushed the piano as far as the instrument could go — it was his instrument. Pianist Emil Gilels gives intense, powerful performances of three of the master's greatest sonatas.
Aug 1st, 2009 · Merce Cunningham was considered one of the finest dancers and choreographers of all time. His work defied convention, abandoning narrative in favor of pure movement; using music as a separate but equal partner and creating a performance space free from the proscenium. Merce Cunningham died last Sunday at the age of 90. Karen Michel did several interviews with Cunningham over the years and sat in on one of his last rehearsals. She has this remembrance.
Jul 27th, 2009 · Cunningham's career, which spanned more than 60 years and some 150 works, revolutionized dance by wiping out storytelling and even tossing coins or dice to determine steps.
Jun 26th, 2009 · Choreographer and dancer Jeffrey Daniel worked with pop icon Michael Jackson on his hit videos Bad, Smooth Criminal and other projects. He also taught Michael Jackson "the backslide," which the king of pop later developed into the famous "Moonwalk." Daniel offers his memories of Jackson, who died Thursday at age 50.
May 15th, 2009 · The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is marking its 50th anniversary with a world tour of 50 cities. Ailey died in 1989. Morning Edition looks back at the vision and legacy of the company's founder, dancer and choreographer.