Katherine Dunham

Katherine Dunham

American dancer, choreographer, and anthropologist

Katherine Dunham

Name	Katherine Dunham
Birth name
Birth date	(1909-06-22)June 22, 1909
Birth place	Glen Ellyn, Illinois, U.S.
Death date	May 21, 2006(2006-05-21) (aged 96)
Death place	New York City, U.S.
Alma mater
Occupation	Dancer, choreographer, anthropologist, author, educator, social activist
Years active	1931–2006
Organization
Known for
Notable works
Spouse(s)	John Pratt
Website

Katherine Mary Dunham (June 22, 1909 – May 21, 2006) was an American dancer, choreographer, anthropologist, and author. She was a pioneer in the field of dance anthropology and is credited with bringing the influence of African dance to the United States. Dunham's work had a significant impact on the development of modern dance and she is often referred to as the "matriarch and queen mother of black dance."

Early Life and Education

Katherine Dunham was born in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, and grew up in Joliet, Illinois. She developed an early interest in dance and anthropology. Dunham attended the University of Chicago, where she earned a bachelor's degree in social anthropology. She later conducted fieldwork in the Caribbean, studying the dance forms of Haiti, Jamaica, and Trinidad.

Career

Dunham's career as a dancer and choreographer began in the 1930s. She founded the Katherine Dunham Dance Company, which became the first self-supporting African-American dance company in the United States. Her choreography was known for its incorporation of African and Caribbean dance styles, which she combined with elements of ballet and modern dance.

Notable Works

Some of Dunham's most notable works include:

• L'Ag'Ya (1938)
• Shango (1945)
• Bal Negre (1946)
• Southland (1951)

Teaching and Influence

Dunham was also a dedicated educator. She established the Katherine Dunham School of Dance and Theatre in New York City, where she trained many prominent dancers and choreographers. Her teaching emphasized the importance of cultural context in dance and she developed the Dunham Technique, a method of dance training that integrates African and Caribbean dance forms with modern dance.

Anthropology and Activism

In addition to her contributions to dance, Dunham was an accomplished anthropologist. Her research in the Caribbean provided valuable insights into the cultural significance of dance in African and Caribbean societies. Dunham was also a committed social activist, using her platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice.

Personal Life

Katherine Dunham was married to John Pratt, a theatrical designer who collaborated with her on many of her productions. She continued to work and perform well into her later years, receiving numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the arts and social justice.

Legacy

Katherine Dunham's legacy continues to influence the world of dance and anthropology. Her innovative approach to dance and her commitment to cultural understanding have left an indelible mark on both fields. The Katherine Dunham Centers for Arts and Humanities in East St. Louis, Illinois, continues to promote her work and vision.

See Also

• African dance
• Modern dance
• Anthropology
• Dance anthropology
• Caribbean dance