[Adta] Ruthanna Boris

[Laurice Nemetz]

I was lucky enough to correspond with Ruthanna about 12 years ago when I 
was just getting my start as a dance/movement therapist.  At the time I 
had written some work on folk dance and DMT and we had a lively exchange 
on the important of dance in culture, and she talked about her 
experiences in choreographing "Cakewalk" among other interests of hers.  
She was intelligent and so encouraging of my work and I felt lucky to 
have had that opportunity.  During that time I wandered one day into a 
ballet bookstore in NYC and happened upon a lovely black and white photo 
of her with George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins,  Anthony Tudor and Todd 
Bolender and was blown away to discover how well-known her place in the 
dance world had been.  The owner of the bookstore had known Ruthanna and 
spoke highly of her dancing.  I don't believe I have that postcard, but 
when I mentioned the picture to Ruthanna she remembered it being taken 
and was happy I got to see it.  I have been off the listserve for awhile 
due to my own frustrations at times with this field.  I do know she 
could be seen as difficult at times and was unafraid to say what she 
felt which sometimes hurt feelings.  Whether or not she was always in 
agreement with others  I think her voice was important to the discussion 
of dance/movement therapy.  I was saddened to hear that she left the 
organization, and hope there is room for us all to voice our opinions 
and dance our dances. 
..

With respect, Lauri


Laurice D. Nemetz, MA, ADTR, RYT, LCAT
Wellness Bridge