A 2015 Interview with Ruth Grauert, by Michael Blossom

As a dancer, lighting designer and stage manager, Ruth’s extensive involvement with the modern dance world is apparent in this interview. The interviewer is Michael Blossom, son of Beverly Blossom, and Ruth‘s remembrances of Beverly are the primary topic of the interview. But Ruth's firsthand knowledge of many of the important figures of 20th century modern dance come into play, and there is much discussion of her work with Alwin Nikolais.

Beverly had nothing but love for Ruth and deep respect for her work, and sought Ruth out for her productions whenever she could. When Ruth was involved, Beverly knew she had someone in her corner who would understand her aesthetic goals, provide creative input, execute flawlessly and get others to do the same. Beverly introduced her when she received the Martha Hill Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. The video of Beverly’s speech and Ruth’s acceptance is below right:

Beverly Blossom, Alwin Nikolais, and Ruth Grauert in Chicago, 1970 ~ Photo: Courtesy Michael Blossom

Ruth Grauert accepts 2005 Martha Hill Award, presented by Beverly Blossom.