Famous German Choreographers

Pina Bausch was a renowned German dancer and choreographer known for her groundbreaking contributions to the neo-expressionist dance style Tanztheater. Her distinctive approach combined dance movement with sound design and elaborate stage sets. Bausch involved her dancers in the creative process, leading to unique and emotionally compelling performances. Her work, influenced by European and American expressionist movements, often delved into themes of trauma within relationships. She founded the internationally acclaimed Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch, solidifying her legacy as a pioneer of modern dance from the 1970s onwards.

Mary Wigman was a German dancer and choreographer known for pioneering expressionist dance, dance therapy, and movement training without pointe shoes. She is recognized as a significant figure in modern dance history, celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions. Wigman became an iconic figure in Weimar German culture, with her work praised for conveying profound existential experiences on stage. Her artistic achievements and innovative approach to dance established her as one of the most important and influential figures in the development of modern dance.

Oskar Schlemmer was a versatile artist known for his work as a painter, sculptor, designer, and choreographer, particularly associated with the Bauhaus school. He served as the Master of Form at the Bauhaus theatre workshop starting in 1923, following his earlier work in the sculpture workshop. Schlemmer is best known for creating the Triadic Ballet, a groundbreaking piece where costumed performers were transformed into geometric representations of the human body, showcasing his unique vision of combining form and color in a dynamic way.

Paula Riemann, known professionally as "Paula Romy," is a talented German filmmaker and choreographer currently based in London. With roots in Berlin, she brings a unique perspective to her creative work. Riemann's filmmaking style is characterized by innovative storytelling and a keen eye for detail. In addition to her work behind the camera, she is also an accomplished choreographer, blending movement and narrative seamlessly in her projects. Riemann's professional journey showcases her dedication to pushing boundaries and creating impactful visual experiences.

Kurt Jooss was a renowned German ballet dancer and choreographer known for blending classical ballet with theatrical elements, ultimately pioneering the genre of Tanztheater. Notably, he founded the Folkwang Tanztheater in Essen, solidifying his impact on the dance world. Jooss' professional career was marked by his establishment of various dance companies and his innovative approach to choreography, which combined technical skill with storytelling. His contributions to the art form continue to influence contemporary dance practices and performances.

Ruth Berghaus was a prominent figure in the German arts scene, known for her work as a choreographer, opera and theatre director, and artistic director. With a career spanning several decades, she made significant contributions to the performing arts through her innovative and thought-provoking productions. Berghaus was celebrated for her unique approach to staging, blending traditional techniques with modern interpretations to push the boundaries of performance art. Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists and continues to influence the world of opera and theatre.

Maria Litto was a prominent German ballerina, choreographer, and actress known for her pioneering work in dance programming on German television. She rose to fame as a prima ballerina at the Berlin Opera in 1944, showcasing her exceptional talent and skills. Litto further demonstrated her versatility by appearing in various films such as "Third from the Right" and "Queen of the Arena," solidifying her reputation as a multifaceted artist with a remarkable career in the world of dance and entertainment.

Harald Kreutzberg was a renowned German dancer and choreographer known for his association with the Ausdruckstanz movement, emphasizing individual artistic expression of emotions. He played a significant role in the development of modern dance in the 20th century. Kreutzberg's innovative choreography and unique style captivated audiences, earning him the reputation as the most famous German male dancer of his time. Despite fading into relative obscurity in the 21st century, his contributions to dance continue to be appreciated and studied by those in the field.