The Harris Theater For Music And Dance in Chicago is renowned for showcasing a diverse range of world-class performances, highlighting both established and groundbreaking artists. Within its prestigious walls, audiences have been captivated by talents spanning various genres. This exploration delves into the remarkable careers of Twyla Tharp, Third Coast Percussion, and Constance Volk – artists whose innovative contributions resonate deeply within the landscape of dance and music, and whose work embodies the spirit of venues like the Harris Theater.
Twyla Tharp: A Choreographic Legend
Twyla Tharp stands as a monumental figure in the world of dance. Since her graduation from Barnard College in 1963, Tharp has choreographed an astounding oeuvre of over 160 works. Her portfolio is incredibly diverse, encompassing 129 dances, 12 television specials, six Hollywood movies, four full-length ballets, four Broadway shows, and even two figure skating routines. Her groundbreaking approach to choreography has garnered widespread acclaim, evidenced by a Tony Award, two Emmy Awards, and an impressive 19 honorary doctorates. Further accolades include the Vietnam Veterans of America President’s Award, the 2004 National Medal of the Arts, the 2008 Jerome Robbins Prize, and a 2008 Kennedy Center Honor, solidifying her status as a national treasure in the arts. She also holds prestigious fellowships and memberships in esteemed academic societies, underscoring her intellectual and artistic contributions.
In 1965, Tharp established Twyla Tharp Dance, a company that became synonymous with creative brilliance and technical mastery. Her signature style is characterized by a unique blend of movement forms, seamlessly fusing jazz, ballet, boxing, and her own inventive vocabulary. This innovative approach has expanded the horizons of both ballet and modern dance, creating a distinctive and influential voice in contemporary choreography, perfectly suited for stages celebrated at venues like the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Beyond her own company, Tharp’s choreographic genius has been sought after by leading ballet and dance companies worldwide, including The Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, The Paris Opera Ballet, and the New York City Ballet, among many others. Her enduring impact is reflected in the continued performance of her works by companies around the globe. Tharp’s foray into Broadway began in 1980, and she has since captivated theater audiences with productions like Movin’ Out, set to the iconic music of Billy Joel, and Come Fly Away, featuring the timeless songs of Frank Sinatra, demonstrating her versatility across different performance platforms.
Third Coast Percussion: Grammy-Winning Innovation
Hailing from Chicago, Third Coast Percussion (TCP) has redefined the landscape of percussion music over nearly two decades. This quartet, comprised of Sean Connors, Robert Dillon, Peter Martin, and David Skidmore, achieved a historic milestone as the first percussion ensemble to win a Grammy Award. Furthermore, they received a Grammy nomination as a composer collective, highlighting their dual excellence in performance and creation. TCP is celebrated for pushing the boundaries of classical music, crafting a captivating sonic experience that “push[es] percussion in new directions, blurring musical boundaries and beguiling new listeners,” as noted by NPR. Emerging from Northwestern University in 2005, TCP has evolved into a thriving non-profit organization, marked by tours across the U.S. and four continents, earning praise for their “rare power” (The Washington Post) and “inspirational sense of fun and curiosity” (Minnesota Star-Tribune).
Their discography boasts 17 albums, including their Grammy-winning recording of Steve Reich’s percussion works, and collaborations with leading contemporary composers such as Philip Glass, Missy Mazzoli, and Danny Elfman. Their commitment to innovation extends to commissioning groundbreaking works, such as Jlin’s Perspective, a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2023. Beyond performance, Third Coast Percussion actively engages with audiences through educational programs, collaborative art projects, and digital platforms, connecting with diverse communities and fostering a deeper appreciation for percussion music – an ethos that aligns perfectly with the Harris Theater for Music and Dance’s commitment to audience engagement and innovative programming. As ensemble-in-residence at Denison University and through partnerships with Chicago-based institutions, TCP demonstrates a dedication to education and community enrichment, further solidifying their role as leaders in the contemporary music scene.
Constance Volk: Multifaceted Artist
Constance Volk embodies artistic versatility, seamlessly navigating the realms of music, painting, and illustration. As a member of Ensemble Dal Niente, the Grossman Ensemble, and the Chicago Wind project, Volk is deeply embedded in the Chicago contemporary music scene. Her collaborative spirit extends to partnerships with renowned ensembles such as Lookingglass Theatre, Alarm Will Sound, Eighth Blackbird, and Third Coast Percussion, showcasing her adaptability and broad artistic range. Volk’s visual art has been exhibited at prominent venues like the Bridgeport Art Center and Zhou B Art Center, and her illustrations are featured in Density Seeds, a project linked to the Density 2036 flute repertoire initiative.
Adding another dimension to her creative output, Volk is the creator of Connie’s Characters, a series of whimsical coloring books that reflect her unique artistic vision. Her diverse portfolio, encompassing paintings, poster art, coloring books, and musical performances, demonstrates a multifaceted talent that resonates with the eclectic programming often found at venues like the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, which celebrates artists who transcend traditional boundaries and engage with multiple forms of creative expression. Her ability to contribute meaningfully across different artistic disciplines underscores her significance as a contemporary artist and her potential to captivate audiences at venues dedicated to diverse and innovative performances.
In conclusion, Twyla Tharp, Third Coast Percussion, and Constance Volk represent the pinnacle of artistic achievement and innovation in dance and music. Their remarkable careers and diverse contributions embody the spirit of the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, a venue dedicated to showcasing exceptional talent and fostering a vibrant cultural landscape. These artists, through their groundbreaking work and unwavering commitment to their craft, continue to inspire and enrich the world of performing arts, making them ideal figures to grace the stages of prestigious venues like the Harris Theater.
