Search Results

1. Lester Horton Dance Theater collection, 1918-1996

   approximately 11,600 items. 55 containers. 30.75 linear feet. -- Music Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.

   Summary:

   The Lester Horton Dance Theater was a modern dance company and school in Los Angeles in the 1940s and 1950s. Founded by dancer and choreographer Lester Horton (1906-1953), the company served as an incubator for the careers of a generation of dancers, including Alvin Ailey, Carmen de Lavallade, Bella Lewitzky, James Mitchell, Joyce Trisler, and James Truitte. The collection documents Horton's early life and career and the Dance Theater's activities under the management of Frank Eng after Horton's death. Materials include clippings, correspondence, costume and set designs, course descriptions, drawings, financial documents, music, photographs, programs, promotional materials, writings, and typed choreographic scenarios.

   Please note:

   Access restrictions apply.

2. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater collection, 1910-2024

   34,115 items. 313 containers. 27 mapcase folders. 161 linear feet. -- Music Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.

   Summary:

   The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) was founded by choreographer and dancer Alvin Ailey (1931-1989). Ailey used Lester Horton and Martha Graham technique and added movement expressive of African American culture and social dance to elevate African American experiences through his work. AAADT became one of the most prolific and celebrated American dance companies. The collection contains documentation of the creation and performance of dances for the AAADT, correspondence and administrative records related to the operation of the company, and promotional materials, photographs, programs, scrapbooks, and awards from throughout the lifespan of the company.

   Please note:

   Access restrictions apply.