Modern dance emerged in the early 20th century as a break from the rigid structures and traditions of classical ballet. Pioneering modern dancers and choreographers sought more freedom to express themselves through movement that was more grounded, free-flowing, and emotion-driven. From its beginnings, modern dance appealed to those looking to push boundaries and question social norms—including many who identified as LGBTQIA+.
Both on stage and behind the scenes, LGBTQIA+ artists played a vital role in shaping and propelling the modern dance movement. They brought their unique voices, sensibilities and life experiences to the craft, expanding ideas of what dance could communicate. Their influence challenged heteronormative assumptions of gender roles and introduced more diverse representations of sexuality and identity in choreography and performance.
Groundbreaking Choreographers Who Broke Molds
Some of the most renowned names in modern dance history identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. These trailblazers include Ted Shawn, one of the "fathers" of American modern dance. Though married to pioneering choreographer Ruth St. Denis for several years, Shawn was likely bisexual or gay. His 1933 work Kinetic Molpai, danced entirely by men, was one of the first to feature homoerotic overtones.
In the 1930s-1950s, choreographer Hanya Holm often featured female duets that subtly suggested lesbian relationships. Bronislava Nijinska, sister and collaborator of famed ballet dancer Vaslav Nijinsky, created groundbreaking dances in the 1920s-1930s depicting sexuality and relationships between women.
Alvin Ailey, founder of the influential Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, was a gay black man. His ethnically-diverse company gave unprecedented opportunities to minority dancers in the 1960s-1970s, when many mainstream ballet companies remained exclusively white. Ailey's choreography, drawing heavily from his experience as a black gay man, broke new ground in its raw emotion and physicality.
The Judson Dance Theater collective, active in the early 1960s, united postmodern dancers and choreographers interested in activism and dismantling artistic hierarchies. Several key members identified as LGBTQIA+, including Fred Herko, Arlene Carmen and Yvonne Rainer. Their avant-garde performances pushed radical themes and featured same-sex partnering.
A New Era of Inclusion Takes Shape
The changes set in motion by 20th century modern dance pioneers opened doors for more visible LGBTQIA+ participation in dance. By the late 20th century, all-male dance companies like Dance Brigade and Ballet Trocadero de Monte Carlo were gaining renown. Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, founded in 1974, parodies classical ballet while challenging preconceptions about gender in dance through drag performance.
More recently, companies like Sean Dorsey Dance and Les Ballet Jazz de Montreal have foregrounded LGBTQIA+ stories and dancers. Queer tango communities have also emerged worldwide. Mainstream companies like the Joffrey Ballet now regularly program works by LGBTQIA+ choreographers like Christian Spuck and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa.
The history of modern and contemporary dance has been profoundly shaped by the marginalized voices it uplifted. For audiences and aspiring dancers alike, embracing this inclusive legacy can lead to deeper connections and more diverse creative inspiration. The contributions of LGBTQIA+ modern dance artists empowered others to find freedom in movement and tell their stories through artistic expression. Their pioneering spirit continues to push the universal language of dance in new directions.
We at SHAVA are honored to share this article as a reflection of our deep commitment to celebrating the rich diversity within the transgender community. It is with heartfelt solidarity that we stand with transgender individuals of color, wholeheartedly advocating for an environment of acceptance and allyship. Through our efforts, we aim to uplift and honor the myriad of unique experiences that contribute to the beautiful tapestry of our community. Discover more about our initiatives at shava.co
