Theodora Wiesner
Education
In 1926, Theodora attended the University of Wisconsin due to her fascination with Dance. At the time, the University of Wisconsin was known for having the best dance education of any university. Prior to attending, Wiesner had little to no experience in dance, however, she was active in many sports throughout her adolescence. She majored in Physical Education, which included the study of dance. Wiesner enrolled in every dance class offered, as well as many science-related courses such as kinesiology and anatomy. In 1930, Wiesner graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Physical Education. Following her undergraduate studies, she moved to New York to receive her Master's in Physical Education at New York University. After completing her master's degree at NYU, Wiesner was offered numerous job opportunities across the East Coast and South. She accepted her first job offer from State Teachers College (Fredericksburg, VA), as a Dance Instructor. She resided there for 3 years and attended a dance symposium held at Washington University that collaborated with other dance departments in Washington. Her work was seen by multiple colleagues, which resulted in numerous new job opportunities. After her time at Washington University, she accepted a teaching position at the University of Pennsylvania. During her 2 years there, the Department of Dance flourished with her knowledge. Wiesner then began teaching and assisting at Bennington College Summer Dance Program. She worked with many well-known dance figures there, such as Martha Graham, John Cage, and Merce Cunningham. Her training at Bennington included performing in Martha Graham's Panorama.[1]
Career
After Wiesner's lengthy educational journey, she applied to Smith College where she was accepted into the Navy as a lieutenant commander. She directed the physical training program and incorporated dance movement. She was eventually promoted to full lieutenant of the Navy Women's Reserve.[1] She was relocated to San Diego and stationed at the base there as the Representative.[2] Wiesner remained there until the end of World War II. She stayed one month after to help with demoralization. In total, she spent 4 years in the Navy. In May 1946, she went back home to Wisconsin in an effort to take some downtime. Very shortly after returning home, she learned how to fly a plane and got her private pilot license. [1]
In 1947, she received a call from Wisconsin State College, desperate for someone to run their administration of the dance department. Although hesitant, she accepted the offer and remained there for two years. In 1949, a colleague reached out to Wiesner to encourage her to apply for a position at Connecticut College School of Dance in New London. Her application was accepted, and she soon became the administrative assistant.[1] The American Dance Festival, known as a famous modern festival to this day, was established at Connecticut College School of Dance. [2] She became director of Brooklyn College's Dance Department in 1950. She remained in this position until retiring in 1975. [2]
Personal Life
Born in the Midwest in a small town, Rice Lake, Wiesner spent most of her childhood there before moving to Wisconsin. She finished her elementary and high school years there before attending the University of Wisconsin. Wiesner maintained a close relationship with her family and hometown throughout her career. [1] She passed away from cancer at age 83 at her home in Greenwich Village. [2]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Digital Collections, The New York Public Library. "(sound recording) Interview with Theodora Wiesner, 1979, (1979)". The New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox, and Tilden Foundations. Retrieved September 17, 2020.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 "Theodora Wiesner, 83; Headed Dance Festival". The New York Times. 1992-05-06. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2020-09-29.
Theodora's education, career, and personal life.
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