José Limón: The Making of an Artist
Directed by Brad Malow
Choreographed by Eric Jackson Bradley
Music Direction by Tim Rosser
World Premeire Tour January 23 - February 19, 2009
- Lovinger Theater, Lehman College, Bronx, NY
- Symphony Space, New York, NY
- Goldstein PAC, Kingsborough Community College, Brooklyn, NY
- Stanford Lively Arts, Stanford, CA
“This moving and highly educational musical turns the mid-20th-century immigrant story of an artist struggling to find his voice into an enamoring personal journey relevant to any kid or adult, especially those new to America.” Backstage
José Limón: The Making of an Artist is a dynamic dance-theater piece honoring the genius and determination of one of Modern Dance’s most influential figures. At five years old, José Limón flees to the United States with his family to escape the Mexican Civil War. As he matures, he dreams of someday becoming a painter, even though his father disapproves. José leaves home to enroll in a New York art school, but is alienated by the restrictions that his professors and classmates place upon his work. By chance, he is invited to a dance recital featuring Harald Kreutzberg, an early modern dancer and choreographer. Transfixed by the experimental, free nature of Modern Dance, José vows to devote his life to the art form. Despite his age and lack of prior training, José’s fierce resolve and natural ability propel him into dance history as one of the greatest male dancers of all time. Learn more about Limon’s legacy.
Production Details for Licensing
CAST
Five singer/actor/dancers
Two women (one soprano, one mezzo)
Three men (one bass, one baritone, one tenor)
ENSEMBLE
Keyboard, Violin, Cello, Guitar
SET
Modular
José Limón: The Making of an Artist was originally commissioned by Making Books Sing.