Martha Graham Duets

Choreographer: Martha Graham

“The Graham Duets” entered LADP’s repertory in 2016 and celebrates one of the 20th century’s most influential choreographers, juxtaposing three distinct pas de deux from larger Graham works—Diversion of Angels and Canticle for Innocent Comedians—first presented in 1948 and 1952, respectively. The first pas de deux is inspired by the “White Duet” from Diversion of Angels, a ballet widely considered to be the choreographer’s ode to love. Set against piano music by Cameron McCash featured in the soundtrack of the 1957 documentary film A Dancer’s World, the “White Duet” communicates profound intimacy through Graham’s signature purity of form. The second and third duets, titled “Stars” and “Moon,” are rarely staged and are, in fact, the only surviving sections of Canticle for Innocent Comedians whose remaining choreography is thought to be lost. While “Stars” gives off a playful energy through Graham’s finely sculpted partnering, “Moon” remains more ethereal as the dancers yield to the piece’s wonderfully poetic and hypnotic core.

Premiere
July 26, 2016 at The Joyce Theater in New York City

Lighting Design
Brandon Stirling Baker

Costume Design
Janie Taylor

Regisseur:
Denise Vale

Music
Arrangement based on music by Cameron McCosh from the documentary film “A Dancer’s World” (1957). Recording by commission for L.A. Dance Project, 2016.

Length
8 minutes