Origins & Early Life

Ted Shawn (born Edwin Myers Shawn; October 21, 1891 – January 9, 1972) was an American dancer and choreographer. Considered a pioneer of American modern dance, he created the Denishawn School together with his wife Ruth St. Denis. After their separation he created the all-male company Ted Shawn and His Men Dancers.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

With his innovative ideas of masculine movement, he was one of the most influential choreographers and dancers of his day. He was also the founder and creator of Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival in Massachusetts. Ted Shawn was born in Kansas City, Missouri on October 21, 1891. Originally intending to become a minister of religion, he attended the University of Denver where he caught diphtheria at the age of 19, causing him temporary paralysis from the waist down. It was during his physical therapy for the disease that Shawn was introduced to dance in 1910, studying with Hazel Wallack, a former dancer with the Metropolitan Opera.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 1912, Shawn relocated to Los Angeles where he became part of an exhibition ballroom dance troupe with Norma Gould as his partner. After moving to New York in 1914, Shawn married Ruth St. Denis on August...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1891 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1891
• October 21 (10-21) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on October 21
• 1972 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1972
• January 9 (01-09) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on January 9