The legendary Martha Graham Dance Company, the oldest continuously operating modern dance company in the United States, marks its centennial with The First and The Future, a production honoring the extraordinary legacy of Martha Graham (1896–1991).
Acclaimed as the “Dancer of the Century” and a “National Treasure”, Graham possessed the rare brilliance of a true star. She stands among the select group of visionaries who laid the foundations of modern dance in America and defined its course throughout the 20th century.
Founded in 1926, the company became Graham’s platform for innovation. Through her physical power and probing intellect, she created choreographic works of global resonance and lasting influence. Her groundbreaking Graham Technique permanently reshaped the aesthetics of modern dance and inspired generations of choreographers and dancers, including Alvin Ailey, Twyla Tharp, Merce Cunningham, and William Forsythe. The scope and impact of her achievements have been compared to Picasso in painting and Stravinsky in music.
The First and The Future, presented in Athens as part of the company’s centennial world tour, creates a dialogue between Graham’s seminal works and bold new creations. Under the artistic direction of Janet Eilber, the program celebrates Graham’s enduring spirit, radical vision, and timeless contribution as the “Dancer of the 20th Century.”
On Thursday, November 20, immediately after the performance and for approximately thirty minutes,
Artistic Director Janet Eilber and two dancers of the Company, together with Dr. Nina Papathanasopoulou, Professor of Classics specializing in Martha Graham’s relationship with ancient Greece, will take the stage of the Christos Lambrakis Hall to discuss the century-long history of the Martha Graham Dance Company and its vision for the future of modern dance.
The discussion is open to all audience members who wish to remain in the hall after the performance to learn more about the Company and meet some of its distinguished artists up close.
PRODUCTION: LAVRIS PRODUCTION
Photo: Xin Ying in Martha Graham’s Chronicle © Hibbard Nash Photography
