Doris Humphrey

Date of Birth: October 17, 1895

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: December 29, 1958

Biography

Doris Humphrey was an American dancer and choreographer who was a pivotal figure in the development of modern dance. Born on October 17, 1895, in Oak Park, Illinois, Humphrey’s innovative techniques and expressive style left a lasting impact on the dance world. She began her dance training at a young age and later joined the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts, where she became a prominent performer and instructor. In 1928, she left Denishawn to form her own company with Charles Weidman, pioneering a technique that emphasized the human body’s natural movements, known as “fall and recovery.” Throughout her career, Humphrey created numerous acclaimed works, including “Water Study” (1928), “The Shakers” (1931), and “New Dance” (1935). Her choreography often explored themes of human emotion, nature, and societal issues. Humphrey also wrote extensively about dance theory, contributing significantly to the intellectual discourse on dance. She served as a mentor to many future dance luminaries and remained active in the dance community until her death on December 29, 1958.

5 Interesting Facts about Doris Humphrey

1. Doris Humphrey was one of the first modern dance choreographers to write extensively about dance theory, particularly in her book “The Art of Making Dances.”

2. She was a leading member of the Denishawn School, where she met and collaborated with Martha Graham.

3. Humphrey’s technique, known as “fall and recovery,” is a cornerstone of modern dance training.

4. She co-founded the Humphrey-Weidman Company, one of the first modern dance companies in the United States.

5. Despite battling arthritis later in life, she continued to contribute to the dance world through teaching and choreography.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Doris Humphrey

1. “There are times when the simple dignity of movement can fulfill the function of a volume of words.”

2. “The body says what words cannot.”

3. “Dance is the art of the human soul in motion.”

4. “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.”

5. “Every dance is a kind of fever chart, a graph of the heart.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Doris Humphrey’s net worth is not well-documented, but her contributions to the field of dance have left an invaluable legacy that transcends monetary value.