Twyla Tharp

Twyla Tharp, born July 1, 1941, is an American dancer, choreographer, and author, best known for her innovative work in both ballet and modern dance. Her 1973 work "Deuce Coupe" for the Joffrey Ballet is often cited as the first crossover ballet, blending classical ballet with contemporary pop music. In 1985, she received a Tony Award for Best Choreography for "Singin' in the Rain," further solidifying her reputation. Tharp also won a Kennedy Center Honor in 2008, recognizing her lifetime contributions to American culture. Her 1979 collaboration with Mikhail Baryshnikov on "Push Comes to Shove" is another hallmark of her career, praised for its unique blend of classical and modern dance styles.