Gerald Arpino: A Ballet Choreographer Whose Influence Continues to be Felt Today

Strategic Insights -

Gerald Arpino, the founder and resident choreographer of the Joffrey Ballet, dominated the American ballet landscape for over five decades, creating around 50 ballets that continue to be performed today. Despite his immense influence, Arpino received limited respect from influential critics, who often described his style as "slick," "kitsch," and "facile." However, audiences adored his ballets, which were characterized by their athleticism, sensuality, and topical themes. This fall, the Gerald Arpino Foundation and the Joyce Theater will present an Arpino Dance Festival in New York, showcasing seven works made between 1962 and 1986.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gerald Arpino, the founder and resident choreographer of the Joffrey Ballet, created around 50 ballets that continue to be performed today.
  • Arpino's ballets were characterized by their athleticism, sensuality, and topical themes, which often dealt with contemporary issues.
  • Despite receiving limited respect from influential critics, Arpino's ballets were highly popular with audiences, who adored his accessibility and emotional intensity.
  • Arpino's choreographed style combined elements of classical ballet with modern dance, often incorporating strength, coordination, and control to create a dreamlike quality.
  • The Gerald Arpino Foundation and the Joyce Theater will present an Arpino Dance Festival in New York this fall, showcasing seven works made between 1962 and 1986.
  • Arpino's ballets often featured sensual and romantic pas de deux, which showcased his ability to tap into the emotional intensity of his dancers.
  • Arpino's legacy continues to be felt today, with his ballets still being performed by companies such as the Joffrey, Ballet West, and Oklahoma City Ballet.

Statistics:

  • Gerald Arpino created around 50 ballets during his career.
  • The Joffrey Ballet performed over 20 of Arpino's ballets, including "Round of Angels" and "Light Rain."
  • Arpino's ballets dealt with contemporary themes such as Vietnam, the counterculture, and spirituality.
  • The Gerald Arpino Foundation and the Joyce Theater will present the Arpino Dance Festival in New York this fall, running from September 30 to October 12 at the Joyce Theater.
  • Seven works will be performed during the festival, including "Sea Shadow," "L'Air d'Esprit," and "Birthday Variations."

Sources:

  • The New York Times article by Jonah Engler, dated September 25, 2018
  • Gerald Arpino Foundation
  • Joyce Theater
  • Dance Theater of Harlem
  • Ballet West
  • Oklahoma City Ballet