Martha Graham Dance Company - Dancing Our Times - Programme B

History turns 100.

Contemporary dance evolves through a mixed bill presented by the Martha Graham Dance Company. Originated by its legendary namesake, the company presents a repertoire that transformed the genre throughout the 20th century, brought into present day with Artistic Director Janet Eilber at the helm.

The company celebrates its centenary with a mixed bill of works, choreographed by Graham, as well as acclaimed artists Baye & Asa, Xin Ying, and Jamar Roberts.

Appalachian Spring by Martha Graham

Springtime in the wilderness is celebrated by a man and woman building a house with joy and love and prayer; by a revivalist and his followers in their shouts of exaltation; by a pioneering woman with her dreams of the Promised Land.

Immediate Tragedy by Martha Graham

Created in response to the atrocities of the Spanish Civil War, a woman is a universal symbol of determination and resilience. Lost to public memory following its last performance in the late 1930s, the recovery of archival references led to its reimagination by Janet Eilber in 2020, with a new score by Christopher Rountree.

We the People by Jamar Roberts

Premiered in 2024, American folk music sets the scene for 21st century symbols of Americana as the American Dream is placed under scrutiny. With score written by Rhiannon Giddens, arranged by Gabe Witcher, this piece - “equal parts protest and lament” - serves as a reminder that power to effect change belongs to the people.

Chronicle by Martha Graham

Ninety years since its premiere at the Guild Theatre in New York City, this piece was a response to the rise of fascism in Europe. Rather than a realistic portrayal of war, imagery is captured to depict its universal tragedy.