Master of Fine Arts

thesisThe problem of this thesis was to choreograph modern dances that maintained the quality, style, and content of Navaho dance and legend. Four minute portions of the Navaho creation myth were used for the basic content of a choreographic production which was filmed on video tape and which accompanies the written part of the thesis. The parts of the creation legend used were : the Twin Gods, the Four Worlds, Creation of White Shell Woman, and Created-Navaho. The main source of inspiration and information for this thesis was the author's own American Indian background and involvement with Navaho culture. The choreography maintained the style and quality of Navaho dance. Music was of Navaho, Zuni Pueblo, and Yaqui Indian origin, Musical and narrative composition by the author of the thesis was also utilized as accompaniment. Colors of the costumes were characteristic of Navaho symbolism, and the costumes were derived from authentic Navaho attire. Stage lighting and props were also used for the small studio production which was presented May 26, 1970, in the Modern Dance Building