Visited Wilson in February 1969 while on his 10th anniversary tour

José Limón revolutionized modern dance. His choreography, dancing skills, and artistic vision earned him renown in the performing arts community and he continued to produce groundbreaking compositions until his death. 

Limón was born in Mexico, but studied at UCLA in 1927, where he saw his first dance performance. His passion for this art form grew, and he moved to New York City, where he studied ballet under Doris Humphrey and Charles Weidman for the next ten years.

Subsequently, he founded his own dance company and continued to work closely with Humphrey. A few short years after the Limón Dance Company began, he choreographed his signature dance, The Moor's Pavane, an acclaimed masterpiece.

Many of his works are considered influential pieces in modern American dance. Each year, he produced a minimum of one new choreographed piece, and passionately taught and directed at both The Juilliard School and Lincoln Center’s American Dance Theater. For all that he accomplished, Limón received two Dance Magazine Awards, the Capezio Award, and honorary doctorates from four universities.

During his visit to Wilson in 1969, Limón both performed and offered an instructional class. He was touring with the American Dance Company, and his group had visited half the world, made possible by the President’s Intercultural Exchange Program. 

Students were awed by his control and grace on stage. His six-foot figure held their attention and excited the audience during performances of “The Winged” and “Missa Brevis.” In addition to viewing the production, they were able to engage with Limón in his instructional lecture. He danced with them and for them, as pictured on this page. 

Sources:

Billboard Volume 50 No. 17, February 14, 1969

https://www.pnb.org/repertory/jose-limon/