Christopher Bruce

Christopher Bruce

1. Background and Training

   • Christopher Bruce was born in England in 1945. He began his dance training at the age of 11, with tap and ballet, at the Rambert School.
   • He became a part of the Rambert Ballet in 1963 and quickly became the male principal dancer. He performed in various works, such as Don Quixote in 1964 and Coppelia in 1966.
   • In 1977 he was appointed Associate Director of the company and, later, Associate Choreographer from 1979 to 1987. While working as Associate Choreographer, her created over 20 works for Rambert.

2. Influences

   • Bruce's work is often influenced by places he visits and sees. For example, 'Ghost Dances' was inspired by the hanging skeletons that are sold in Mexico during the celebrations of the Day of the Dead.
   • Bruce has also said during an interview that his dancers 'influenced everything' and so the dancers he choreographs for have a lot of effect on his choreography.
   • He was also heavily influenced by the technique of Marie Graham due to his training at Rambert School.
   • His work was sometimes also affected by politics. For example, Ghost Dances was influenced by the political oppression in Chile at the time.

3. Key Choreographic Works

   • Ghost Dances: 1981
   • Swansong: 1987
   • Rooster: 1991
   • Cruel Garden: 1977

4. Fun Facts

   • In his work, Bruce often uses popular music, such as the Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan.
   • He has received a CBE for his contribution in dance.