Massachusetts is home to many “firsts” in the U.S.: the first public park, the first university, and even the first basketball game. Soon, it might also boast the first state-appointed choreographer laureate.
The honorary position was first proposed by state senator Rebecca Rausch in legislation filed last year. State senator Patrick O’Connor proposed a similar role for a musician laureate, and, in a bipartisan effort, the proposals were merged and adopted into an economic development bill that the Massachusetts Senate passed earlier this month. If the legislation is ultimately signed into law, the home state of Jacob’s Pillow, Boston Ballet, and The Yard will get a shiny new government spotlight on dance.
Senator Rausch, who has a background in dance, took a moment to discuss the development of the new position and what a choreographer laureate could bring to the state.
Where did the idea to create a choreographer laureate come from?
A combination of my own personal experience as a dancer and choreographer and dance teacher for many years, and also the deep love and appreciation for the different dance cultures in Massachusetts that, unfortunately, often fly under the radar unless you’re involved in the dance community. We’ve seen laureate positions in a variety of other states, largely focused on poetry. And dance and choreography are other forms of art that we should highlight and celebrate. Having a choreographer laureate could advance tourism and economic growth within the dance community, but also beyond it.
What exactly would a laureate position entail?
Engaging and uplifting the art form. There may be opportunities to choreograph performances at important state events and swearing-in ceremonies. Maybe they and the musician laureate get together and create a new piece. It’s really up to whomever the choreographer laureate would be to figure out what works for their particular expertise, the events of the day, the social climate, and the opportunities that present themselves.
How long would the tenure be?
Four years—the same term for all of our constitutional officers in Massachusetts. They can also be reappointed for a second four-year term.
How would they be chosen?
The governor would make the appointment from a list of finalists submitted by a nominating committee of five people with expertise in dance and choreography.
Why does dance mean so much to you?
Like so many kids, I started doing ballet lessons at 2, and continued with ballet, tap, and jazz until middle school. Then I shifted into Israeli folk dancing. For the better part of two decades, I ran the premier Israeli dance company in New England. We performed for halftime at the Celtics and with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, out in Tanglewood one year, at Fenway a couple of times. We also performed at the United Nations at the celebration of Israel’s 70th anniversary. I am still working with a group of families, bringing Israeli dance performances to less formal settings.
Dance isn’t often recognized by the government at this level. Why do you think it’s important to give it this spotlight?
Because it deserves it. Especially in a place like Massachusetts, the home of so much current and historic dance work. In my experience, I’ve seen official recognition generate an element of legitimacy that really always should have been there, but for whatever reason wasn’t. A laureate program creates space for people to bring their particular perspective to the foreground and share that with the Commonwealth, so we all learn from and grow with it.