Area of Study: Rambert Dance Company (Ballet Rambert) 1966-2002

The prestigious Rambert Dance Company transitioned from a classical ballet company to one of the most influential contemporary dance companies during this period.
Directed by Marie Rambert until 1962, followed by Norman Morrice, John Chesworth, Richard Glasstone, Bob Cohan, and finally Christopher Bruce.
Known for fostering young talent and embracing creativity, attracting numerous innovative choreographers.

Norman Morrice brought fresh creative direction, focusing on modern and contemporary works.
Morrice encouraged collaboration between choreographers, composers, and designers.
Choreographers like Glen Tetley and Christopher Bruce made significant contributions during this period.

The company introduced works using a variety of dance techniques, from classical ballet to contemporary and jazz.
Notable works include Pierrot Lunaire (Schlemmer/Tetley), Ghost Dances (Bruce), Cruel Garden (Bruce/Latin), and Symphony of Psalms (Tetley).
Thematically, the repertory during this period covered a wide range of subjects, from political issues to abstract, poetic expressions.

The Rambert company’s style evolved over time, integrating modern and contemporary dance techniques with its classical ballet roots.
A distinguishing feature is the use of expressionist movement and emotional intensity in many performances.

Action: Performances included diverse actions such as elevation, travel, stillness and contact work.
Space: Utilisation of space varied widely, with dancers moving in and across all levels and directions.
Dynamic: Performances showcased a range of dynamics, often contrasting such as fast/slow, direct/indirect, bound/flowing, locomotor/nonlocomotor.
Relationships: Choreography often reflected human relationships and emotions, demonstrated by proximity, timing and interaction between dancers.

The collaboration of choreographers with contemporary composers and designers had a profound impact on the company’s output.
Rambert’s pioneering creative direction significantly influenced UK’s modern dance scene.
Many former dancers and choreographers went on to form their own companies, spreading the influence of Rambert’s dance aesthetics.

Smaller-scale, experimental performances marked the transition towards contemporary dance.
The broader contemporary dance movement was reflected in Rambert’s increasing focus on presenting works by modern choreographers in the late 20th century.

The Rambert Dance Company played a central role in the development of contemporary dance in Britain.
It continues to inspire generations of dancers and choreographers, maintaining a strong commitment to innovation and creative collaboration.
During this period, the company expanded its outreach and educational programmes, fostering a wider appreciation for dance as an art form.