Choreographer
In the 1920s, ’30s, and ’40s, Lester Horton developed a modern dance technique based on Native American dances, anatomical studies, and other movement influences. In addition to creating his technique and choreographing numerous works for stage and film, Horton established the Lester Horton Dance Theater in Los Angeles in 1946. One of the first permanent theaters dedicated to modern dance in the United States, it remained in operation until 1960.
Horton was also among the first choreographers in the United States to insist upon racial integration in his company. In Alvin Ailey’s 1995 autobiography, he wrote, “What it came down to was that, for Lester, his art was much more important than the color of a dancer’s skin.”
Mr. Ailey studied with Horton and became a member of his company. When Horton died unexpectedly in 1953, Mr. Ailey temporarily took over leadership of the company before moving to New York. In 1958, he launched Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater with other dancers from the Horton company, including Carmen de Lavallade, Joyce Trisler, and James Truitte.
Read more about Horton technique in this Dance Spirit magazine feature story.
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LEGACY
REPERTORY
1952
Lester Horton
1950
Lester Horton