Doris Humphrey

Definition

Doris Humphrey was a pioneering American modern dancer and choreographer, recognized for her significant contributions to the development of modern dance in the early 20th century. She is best known for her unique choreography that emphasized the principles of fall and recovery, which illustrated the human experience and emotion through movement, influencing both her own works and those of her contemporaries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Doris Humphrey co-founded the Humphrey-Weidman Company with Charles Weidman in 1928, which became one of the leading modern dance companies of its time.
2. She was deeply influenced by the Denishawn school, where she trained alongside notable dancers like Martha Graham, shaping her innovative approach to choreography.
3. Humphrey's work often reflected social themes and human emotions, utilizing her unique technique of fall and recovery to express dramatic narratives.
4. In addition to her performance career, Doris Humphrey was a skilled educator, teaching at institutions such as Juilliard and helping to train a new generation of dancers.
5. Her impact on modern dance is celebrated through the legacy of her choreography, which continues to be performed and studied today.

Review Questions

• How did Doris Humphrey's principles of fall and recovery influence modern dance?
  • Doris Humphrey's principles of fall and recovery introduced a new way of expressing emotions through movement. This technique allowed dancers to explore the physicality of their movements, illustrating the balance between control and surrender. By emphasizing these dynamics, she created choreography that resonated with audiences on an emotional level, setting a foundation for future choreographers to build upon in modern dance.
• Discuss how Doris Humphrey's collaboration with José Limón impacted the evolution of modern dance.
  • Doris Humphrey's mentorship of José Limón significantly impacted his development as a choreographer, as he adopted many of her techniques while infusing them with his own cultural influences. Their collaboration not only elevated Limón’s artistic voice but also showcased how Humphrey's methods could be adapted to convey different narratives. This partnership contributed to a richer landscape in modern dance, blending their styles and solidifying both as influential figures in the field.
• Evaluate Doris Humphrey's role among women pioneers in American dance and how she shaped future generations.
  • Doris Humphrey played a crucial role among women pioneers in American dance by breaking barriers in a male-dominated field during the early 20th century. As both a performer and choreographer, she challenged traditional notions of femininity through her bold movements and thematic choices. Her legacy lives on through her innovative techniques and teachings, inspiring countless dancers and choreographers who continue to push the boundaries of modern dance while acknowledging her foundational influence.

Related terms

Fall and Recovery: A foundational principle in Humphrey's choreography that explores the balance between falling and rising, symbolizing the human condition and emotional states.

José Limón:

A prominent dancer and choreographer who studied under Doris Humphrey and later became a major figure in modern dance, known for incorporating elements of her techniques into his own work.

Denishawn: A dance school and company co-founded by Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn, which greatly influenced Doris Humphrey's early training and artistic development in modern dance.