Explore the groundbreaking work of Twyla Tharp, a legendary figure in the world of dance. Learn about her innovative choreography and influential career, and be inspired to embrace creativity in your own life.
Rachel Syme interviews Twyla Tharp about her dogged work ethic, not falling in love with Baryshnikov, and what’s lost and gained by making art as you age.
The legendary choreographer tells us how even the most seemingly non-dancelike things from her past — typing, baton-twirling, and working at a drive-in among them — have informed both her past and present.
Twyla Tharp was born in Portland, Indiana, July 1, 1941, the daughter of Lecile and William Tharp. Her grandparents on both sides were Quakers who farmed the land. She was named after Twila Thornburg, the reigning Pig Princess at the 89th Annual Muncie Fair, with the "i" changed to "y" because her mother always said it would look better on a marquee. Twyla was the eldest of her siblings: twin brothers and a sister, Twanette.
Twyla Tharp is my spirit animal. “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” “I had always seen myself as a star; I wanted to be a galaxy.“ “I think a sense of humor will help get a girl...
American Ballet Theatre commissioned Push Comes To Shove for their newest premier danseur Mikhail Baryshnikov. The central male character introduced in the prelude carries the easy ragtime feeling throughout the work. He serves as a master of ceremonies, leading his company of dancers in Haydn’s Symphony No. 82. Tharp had previously created works for her modern dance company that wedded classical and popular music styles, but Push Comes To Shove marks the first such work ever presented by a…