Modern dance in the United States

[1] Her emphasis on the natural world and body in the context of concert dance influenced the ideas of the modern dancers who succeed her in America.

[citation needed] The main line of development, however, runs from the dance company of Ruth St. Denis (1878–1968) and her husband-partner, Ted Shawn (1891–1972), which produced work exploring images from other countries that were considered exotic by American audiences.

Another pupil of St. Denis, Martha Graham (1893–1991), whose New York-based company became perhaps the best known in modern dance, sought to express an inward-based passion.

[3] With clear pioneers, pupils and principles, modern dance began to emerge as a distinctly American art form to be taught and developed throughout the country and continent.

Their belief, put into action in their hiring practices and performances, is that graceful, exciting movement is not restricted by age or body type.