I have been training in modern dance technique for at least 10 years now. One of the modern techniques that my modern teachers have always taught is Horton Technique. While I’ve known the name “Horton” for much of my life as a dancer, I had not thought to study him as a person until taking “Twentieth Century Concert Dance” this semester. So, when given the opportunity to research him, I jumped at the chance to learn more about a choreographer that has had a great impact on my life.
In my modern classes I have always found Horton Technique to be challenging. But, it was a challenge I was willing to accept to master the modern technique I was so intrigued by. Horton’s technique is very unique and the movements require great strength and control over one’s body. However, the shapes that result from building up the strength to hold positions are essential building blocks in many great modern pieces.
After being more aware of the choreographers and techniques behind dance pieces, I was struck by the Horton Technique used in Revelations when I saw it performed by Alvin Ailey in March. I have a personal connection to Revelations because my former modern teacher taught the members of our dance company variations of several of the segments within the piece. This connection, in addition to the experience of seeing the Alvin Ailey company perform the dance under a new lens, sparked an interest in me to gain a deeper understanding of the mastermind behind the Horton Technique.
Horton Hinge 