Martha Graham: In Performance

A true pioneer in the world of dance, Martha Graham became an American legend. Breaking with tradition, she was a fearless explorer and a passionate artist. She exemplified the American spirit in its purest form. This film contains three complete historic performances by Martha Graham filmed at the peak of her career. A DANCER'S WORLD (1957)In this 30-minute Peabody Award-winning film, Miss Graham and her company demonstrate the challenge and beauty of expression through movement. Developed during her European and Asian tours, the format of the film—"exercises de style," as the French call it—takes  us into her dressing room, the studio, and the spirit of dance itself. Directed and photographed by Peter Glushanok.NIGHT JOURNEY (1961)Martha Graham's retelling of the legend of Oedipus, danced by Miss Graham as Jocasta, Paul Taylor as Tiresais, and Bertram Ross as Oedipus. The work has a score by William Schuman and set design by Isamu Noguchi, the internationally renowned sculptor and designer. "This film contains the essence of Graham and is among the two or three successful dance films ever made" (Clive Barnes). Directed by Alexander Hammid. APPALACHIAN SPRING (1958)An American folk tale of a young pioneer, his bride, and a wandering revivalist preacher with a band of followers. The dance tells of teh couple's wedding, the building of their home, the preacher's dire sermon, and the woman's gentle blessing as the couple beings a life in the wilderness. The Pulitzer Prize-winning score was composed by Aaron Copland, and the sets were designed by Isamu Noguchi. Directed and photographed by Peter Glushanok.93 minutes, black & white