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La Meri: A Dance Pioneer and Artistic Visionary

Alan Turner

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La Meri and Her Life in Dance: Performing the World

by Laura Joplin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14667 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	333 pages

Early Life and Dance Education

La Meri, born Russell Meriwether Hughes on May 23, 1895, in New York City, was a pioneer in the world of dance. Her fascination with dance began at a young age, and she received formal training in ballet, modern dance, and Spanish dance.

In 1920, La Meri traveled to Spain to study flamenco and other traditional Spanish dances. This experience had a profound impact on her artistic development and shaped her future path.

Creating an Exotic Dance Style

Upon her return to the United States, La Meri began to develop her own unique dance style, drawing inspiration from her travels and her fascination with exotic cultures. She fused elements of Spanish dance, flamenco, Indian dance, Southeast Asian dance, and other non-Western dance forms, creating a captivating and visually stunning dance style.

La Meri's performances were known for their vibrant costumes, exotic music, and intricate choreography. She often collaborated with musicians and dancers from different cultural backgrounds, creating a truly multicultural dance experience.

Ethnomusicological Research

In addition to her dance career, La Meri was also a dedicated ethnomusicologist. She conducted extensive research on the music and dance traditions of various cultures, traveling to different countries and studying their musical practices firsthand.

La Meri's research and writings on Indian dance and music are particularly notable. Her book, "Dance in India," published in 1945, remains a classic text on the subject.

Cultural Preservation and Dance Education

La Meri was deeply committed to preserving and promoting the art of dance. She established the La Meri Dance Archives in New York City, a repository of dance materials from around the world. She also founded the La Meri Dance Academy, which provided training in ethnic and exotic dance styles.

La Meri's teaching methods were innovative and influential. She emphasized the importance of cultural authenticity and encouraged her students to explore the historical and cultural contexts of the dances they studied.

Legacy and Influence

La Meri's contributions to the world of dance are immeasurable. She was a pioneer in the field of ethnic and exotic dance, and her work helped to break down cultural barriers and promote cross-cultural understanding.

La Meri's legacy continues to inspire dancers and scholars alike. Her work has been instrumental in shaping the way we perceive and appreciate dance from different cultures.

La Meri passed away on June 29, 1992, but her artistic vision and her dedication to cultural preservation continue to live on.

La Meri was a true dance pioneer and artistic visionary. Her passion for dance, her commitment to cultural preservation, and her innovative teaching methods have left an indelible mark on the world of dance.

Her legacy continues to inspire dancers, scholars, and audiences around the world, reminding us of the power of dance to connect people across cultures and to celebrate the beauty and diversity of human expression.

La Meri and Her Life in Dance: Performing the World

by Laura Joplin

5 out of 5