“The content and thematic materials of dance is, of itself, like boxing. You play tennis and baseball. But boxing is not a sport you play: you stand up and do it.”

American dancer, choreographer, and author

Twyla Tharp is an American dancer, choreographer, and author based in New York City. Since 1965, she has shaped a long career in dance, first through her company Twyla Tharp Dance, which later merged with American Ballet Theatre in 1988 and was regrouped in 1991. Her choreography is known for drawing on classical, jazz, and contemporary pop music. Alongside her work in dance, she has also written books, extending her voice beyond the stage into the page.