Ted Shawn (1891-1972) was an American dancer, choreographer, and teacher who is considered one of the pioneers of modern dance. He began his career as a ballet dancer, but he soon became interested in exploring new forms of dance expression. In 1914, he founded the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts with his partner, Ruth St. Denis. The Denishawn School was a major force in the development of modern dance, and it produced many notable dancers and choreographers, including Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, and Charles Weidman.
Shawn was also an influential teacher and writer. He published several books on dance, including "The American Indian: And Other Dances" (1920) and "Dance We Must" (1940). He also founded the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival in 1933, which is now one of the most prestigious dance festivals in the world.
Ruth St. Denis (1879-1968) was an American dancer, choreographer, and teacher who is also considered one of the pioneers of modern dance. She began her career as a vaudeville performer, but she soon turned to studying Oriental dance. In 1906, she created her first solo dance, "Radha," which was inspired by Indian mythology. "Radha" was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to launch St. Denis's career as a solo dancer.
St. Denis was also a prolific choreographer. She created over 150 dances, many of which were inspired by different cultures and religions. She was also an influential teacher, and she taught dance at the Denishawn School and at other schools and universities.
Ted Shawn and Ruth St. Denis made a significant contribution to the development of modern dance. They helped to create new forms of dance expression, they trained a generation of dancers and choreographers, and they helped to promote dance as an art form.