Twyla Tharp
Biography
Twyla Tharp is an American dancer, choreographer, and author whose work often combines different dance genres, including ballet, modern dance, jazz, and even social dance forms. Born in Portland, Indiana, in 1941, Tharp studied at Pomona College and Barnard College, while also training extensively with dance luminaries such as Merce Cunningham, Martha Graham, and Paul Taylor. She founded her own company, Twyla Tharp Dance, in 1965, quickly establishing a reputation for innovation and artistic rigor. Her prolific career includes choreographing for major ballet companies like American Ballet Theatre and Paris Opera Ballet, as well as creating highly successful Broadway shows such as 'Movin' Out' (based on Billy Joel's music) and 'Come Fly Away' (featuring Frank Sinatra's music). She is also an acclaimed author, known for books like 'The Creative Habit' and her autobiography 'Push Comes to Shove,' which reflect on her creative process and disciplined approach to art.
Selected Thoughts
«Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is a result of good work habits.»
«Before you can think outside the box, you have to start with a box.»
«Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.»
Writing Style
Tharp's writing style is direct, pragmatic, and insightful, often blending personal anecdotes from her extensive career with practical advice on fostering creativity and discipline. Her prose is clear and accessible, making complex ideas about artistic process understandable to a broad audience. She emphasizes the importance of hard work, preparation, and habit as foundations for innovation, rather than relying solely on spontaneous inspiration.