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3 dance specialists were essential to the Interactive Gateway research project. Their participation gave students valuable insights into the work of Judson Dance Theater, Postmodern dance, performing historic works and dance documentation. Listen to these inspiring interviews with choreographer Yvonne Rainer, Dance Re-stager Pat Catterson, and Labanotator Valarie Mockabee.

In her interview, Yvonne Rainer discusses her dance background, which includes her studies with Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham, and Robert Dunn and reflects on her rebellions and explorations in the Judson Dance Theater. Yvonne Rainer gives contextual information about the dance Chair/Pillow, such as why she chose those props, the role of improvisation, and Chair/Pillows significance within her work "Continuous Project Altered Daily."

Chair/Pillow interview

Yvonne Rainer talks about Chair/Pillow as one section of a major work, Continuous Project Altered Daily. This dance employs contact improvisation, sports, and very large props. Listen to Rainer describing other sections of Continuous Project Altered Daily.

Specialist Interviews:

Yvonne Rainer

Effort and Inspiration Interview

Chair/Pillow is a prop dance performed to Ike and Tina Turners' passionate love song, River Deep Mountain High. In this clip Yvonne Rainer discusses why she chose chairs and pillows and what about the music inspired her to create the dance.

Movement and Task Interview

Yvonne Rainer was inspired and influenced by the works of visual artists of the time. Learn the importance of ordinary movement, task and why Steve Paxton ate a sandwich during a performance.

Judson Dance Theatre interview

Yvonne Rainer encourages contemporary choreographers to explore alternatives for inspiration in dance.

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