Doris Humphrey Dances
Doris Humphrey, one of the pioneer figures in American Modern Dance, left an indelible mark on the dance world with her innovative choreography.
Renowned for her emphasis on the expressive potential of movement and her exploration of weight, fall, and recovery, Humphrey’s works revolutionized the art form. From iconic pieces like Water Study and Day on Earth to her seminal contributions to dance technique through the Humphrey-Weidman technique, her legacy continues to inspire generations of dancers and choreographers worldwide. Humphrey’s profound understanding of the human body and its potential expression transformed modern dance, establishing her as one of the most influential figures in dance history. Therefore, a dance choreographed by Doris Humphrey is a treasure that deserves a place in every dance company’s repertoire.
The DNB had the privilege of documenting numerous works from Humphrey’s repertoire in Labanotation scores. Many of these works were personally taught by Humphrey herself at prestigious venues, such as the American Dance Festival (ADF) and José Limón Dance Company, among others. At the ADF, when presented with a Labanotation score of Variations and Conclusion from New Dance, Humphrey aptly remarked, “New Dance is no longer a legend, it is history.” Humphrey held notation in high regard, recognizing its value in preserving dance for posterity. It was her commitment and enthusiasm that led to the notation of many of her works.
As of December 2023, a new agreement has been established with Charles Woodford, Doris Humphrey’s heir. Under this agreement, the DNB will manage the licensing and contracting for 23 Humphrey works on his behalf. Staging can be organized with or without the Labanotation score. The license fees for these dances are reasonably priced to ensure accessibility, even for those on a limited budget.
Please contact Bill Kiley if you are interested in staging any of the Humphrey works.
Here is a list of dances notated in Labanotation:
Air for the G String
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4
The Call/Breath of Fire
Dawn in New York
Day on Earth
Fantasy and Fugue
Invention
Life of the Bee
New Dance
Variations and Conclusion from New Dance
Night Spell
Partita V
Passacaglia and Fugue
The Pleasures of Counterpoint
Quasi Waltz
Ritmo Jondo
Ruins and Visions
The Shakers
Soaring
Sonata Pathetique
The Desert God from Song of the West
Two Ecstatic Themes
Water Study
With My Red Fires
Below are works NOT notated in Labanotation:
The Banshee
Dance Overture
Drama of Motion
Duo-Drama
Etude Patetico
Lament for Ignacio Sanchez Mejias
The Libation Bearers
Rudepoema
Sarabande
Scherzo Waltz
Valse Caprice (aka Scarf Dance)