Jooss, Kurt (1901-1979)

German choreographer and teacher. He attempted to synthesize ballet with modern dance by stripping the former of its decadent mannerisms whilst retaining its rigorous discipline and precision. His socially conscious works, such as the acclaimed antiwar The Green Table 1932, strove to express his ideal of dance as a voice for the common man.

He founded the Folkwang School and company 1927 in Essen, Germany. Forced out by the Nazis, Jooss established a base at Dartington Hall, Devon, England, 1934. In 1949 he returned to his Essen school, where he worked until he retired 1968.