Ep 6. Merce Cunningham: a Lifetime of Dance

Merce Cunningham: a Lifetime of Dance, is the sixth episode of season 16 of the show American Masters. This episode pays homage to one of the most influential choreographers of the 20th century, Merce Cunningham.

The episode starts by giving some background on Merce Cunningham and his rise to fame. Viewers get a glimpse into his early life and how he discovered his love for dance. From there, the episode delves into his contribution to the world of dance and the many ways in which he challenged conventional dance techniques.

Throughout the episode, there are interviews with dancers who worked with Cunningham and learned from him. We also get to hear from other choreographers who were inspired by his avant-garde techniques. This allows viewers to really understand the impact that Cunningham had on the dance world and how he influenced other artists.

One of the most interesting parts of the episode is when we get to see some of Cunningham's most famous works being performed. The episode includes clips of dancers rehearsing and performing some of his most iconic pieces, which allows viewers to see just how creative and unconventional his dance style was.

The episode also delves into Cunningham's personal life. Viewers get to see how he managed to balance his personal life with his career, and how he maintained his artistic vision throughout his life. We also get a glimpse into his relationship with his romantic partner and collaborator, John Cage.

Overall, Merce Cunningham: a Lifetime of Dance is a beautiful tribute to one of the most important figures in modern dance. It gives viewers a comprehensive look into Cunningham's life and work, and highlights the impact that he had on the dance community.