rambert

the present day

In 1966 the Company underwent its most significant reformation, when the Graham-based modern dance technique was added to the dancers' training in classical ballet, enabling them to perform a wider selection of works. At this point Rambert took the bold step of reducing its size and returning to its creative roots.

These changes initiated others: the range of music was broadened and a new generation of choreographers was encouraged. The American, Glen Titley, revealed the potential of marrying classical and contemporary choreography, and Christopher Bruce emerged from the ranks of the dancers as a major new choreographic talent. For three and a half decades Rambert continued to evolve under a succession of Artistic Directors, each taking a slightly different view of how Marie Rambert's intentions could be realised. The name of the company was finally changed in 1987 to Rambert Dance Company.

In 1994 Christopher Bruce was persuaded to return to Rambert as its Artistic Director. He formed a new company, encompassing a wide range of techniques, continuing to encourage the development of new choreographers, and creating boldly theatrical dances with clear themes to place beside international masterworks by eminent choreographers. During Bruce's Directorship, the Company performed 38 works new to Rambert, of which 24 are new creations, and ten revivals of earlier works. Bruce's intensely moving Ghost Dances (above) is one of the most popular works in Rambert's repertoire. Christopher Bruce was succeeded in December 2002 by Mark Baldwin.

Main picture: Ghost Dances

Article by Jane Pritchard, Rambert Archivist