Schoenberg, Bessie (1906–1997)

views updated

Schoenberg, Bessie (1906–1997)

German modern dancer and teacher. Born Dec 27, 1906, in Hanover, Germany; died 1997.

One of the most influential and recognized teachers in modern dance choreography, trained with Martha Hill at University of Oregon, then at Martha Graham school and Neighborhood Playhouse in NY; began performing in Graham company (1931), where she danced in premieres of Primitive Mysteries, Ceremonials, and Project in Movement for a Divine Comedy; served as dance teacher at numerous institutions, including Bennington College and Sarah Lawrence College, where she was also director of the dance department for over 30 years (1941–71), then professor emeritus.

See also (documentary) Portrait of Bessie Schoenberg.

More From encyclopedia.com