Carolyn Carlson American dancer and choreographer of Finnish origin Date of Birth: 07.03.1943 Country: USA

1. Biography of Karolin Carlson
2. Early Career and International Recognition
3. Collaboration with Anna Beranger and Paris Opera
4. Teaching and Further Works

Biography of Karolin Carlson

Karolin Carlson, an American dancer and choreographer of Finnish descent, was born in California. She received her training in classical dance and went on to make a name for herself in the dance world.

Early Career and International Recognition

In New York, Carlson met Alvin Ailey and joined his troupe, becoming its central figure. Over the course of seven years, she toured extensively with the group. In 1968, she received the award for Best Dancer at the International Dance Festival in Paris.

Collaboration with Anna Beranger and Paris Opera

In 1971, Carlson joined Anna Beranger's troupe in Paris, where she created her first choreography. Her work was showcased, including at the Avignon Festival in 1972. In 1974, Rolf Lieberman invited her to the Paris Opera as a choreographer, and in 1975, she was asked to lead the Theater Research Group of the Paris Opera.

During her time at the Paris Opera from 1974 to 1980, Carlson created an impressive series of 25 works, including "Density 21.5," "Architects: This One, That One, and the Other," "Slowly, Heavily, and Depressed," and "Trio."

Teaching and Further Works

From 1974, Carlson also conducted master classes at the Opera, as well as teaching in Paris, Angers, Vienna, Milan's Teatro Piccolo, Bolzano, Turin, and the Theatre de Beaulieu in Lausanne. From 1980 to 1985, she continued to create works in Venice at the Teatro La Fenice, such as "Undici Onde" and "Underwood." From 1985 to 1991, she returned to Paris, where she began fruitful work at the Theatre de la Ville, creating works like "Darkness" and "Still Waters."

In 1991-1992, Carlson lived and worked in Finland. In 1994, she co-founded Atelier de Paris - Carolyn Carlson with Pierre Barnier, which serves as both a dance company and a center for master classes. In 2000, she released "Wrestlers of the Spirit."

Throughout her career, Carlson has choreographed over 70 works that have been performed worldwide. She is also a poet and artist. Among her many awards, Carlson has received the Achievement in Music Award, the title of Knight of the Order of Arts and Literature, and the title of Knight of the Legion of Honor.

In 1998, she was honored with the Benois de la Danse award for her ballet "Symbols," which was performed at the Paris Opera.