In a bold move, Paul Taylor Dance Company is doubling down on its legacy with the introduction of not one, but two resident choreographers: Lauren Lovette and Robert Battle. This unprecedented decision marks the first time the 71-year-old institution has had two creative voices at the helm.
Lovette, a former principal dancer with New York City Ballet, brings to the table a unique perspective shaped by her experiences with ADHD. Her latest work, "stim," is set to John Adams's iconic score and explores themes of anxiety and self-acceptance. What sets Lovette apart is her ability to channel the relentless energy of the music into a captivating dance piece that is both a marathon and an endurance test.
In stark contrast, Battle's debut work, "Under the Rhythm of Jazz," pays homage to his mother, who instilled in him a love for poetry, jazz, and community. The piece features 15 dancers and a medley of songs by Wycliffe Gordon, Ella Fitzgerald, Mahalia Jackson, and Steve Reich. What makes Battle's choreography special is its vulnerability and joy – qualities that he attributes to his mother's unwavering presence.
While both dancers represent different aspects of Paul Taylor's distinct aesthetic, they share a common thread: a deep reverence for music. This musicality is reminiscent of the great choreographers who came before them, such as George Balanchine and Martha Graham.
The creative process was nothing short of eye-opening for Lovette, who found that letting go of control allowed her to tap into the dancers' individuality and create something truly special. Battle, on the other hand, spoke of finding his true voice in this work – a feeling he attributes to the influence of his mother's legacy.
As the company navigates its new chapter, it will perform a range of Taylor classics alongside these two world premieres. The season promises an emotionally generous and warm repertory that will leave audiences cheering.
The Paul Taylor Dance Company's Lincoln Center Season runs through November 23, 2025 – not to be missed for fans of this iconic institution and its latest creative chapter.
Lovette, a former principal dancer with New York City Ballet, brings to the table a unique perspective shaped by her experiences with ADHD. Her latest work, "stim," is set to John Adams's iconic score and explores themes of anxiety and self-acceptance. What sets Lovette apart is her ability to channel the relentless energy of the music into a captivating dance piece that is both a marathon and an endurance test.
In stark contrast, Battle's debut work, "Under the Rhythm of Jazz," pays homage to his mother, who instilled in him a love for poetry, jazz, and community. The piece features 15 dancers and a medley of songs by Wycliffe Gordon, Ella Fitzgerald, Mahalia Jackson, and Steve Reich. What makes Battle's choreography special is its vulnerability and joy – qualities that he attributes to his mother's unwavering presence.
While both dancers represent different aspects of Paul Taylor's distinct aesthetic, they share a common thread: a deep reverence for music. This musicality is reminiscent of the great choreographers who came before them, such as George Balanchine and Martha Graham.
The creative process was nothing short of eye-opening for Lovette, who found that letting go of control allowed her to tap into the dancers' individuality and create something truly special. Battle, on the other hand, spoke of finding his true voice in this work – a feeling he attributes to the influence of his mother's legacy.
As the company navigates its new chapter, it will perform a range of Taylor classics alongside these two world premieres. The season promises an emotionally generous and warm repertory that will leave audiences cheering.
The Paul Taylor Dance Company's Lincoln Center Season runs through November 23, 2025 – not to be missed for fans of this iconic institution and its latest creative chapter.
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lauren lovette is all about them anxiety vibes tho, and i love it 
but robert battle's work sounds soooo soulful 
& its dope that he credits his mom for the inspiration 
"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination." - Albert Einstein 
On the other hand, Battle's "Under the Rhythm of Jazz" is all about feeling the vibe and being vulnerable, which I think is really beautiful. It's cool that they share a passion for music, just like the legends who came before them.