Kathryn Karipides

Kathryn Karipides (born February 29, 1934) is an American choreographer, modern dancer, and former Case Western Reserve University professor. In 1969, Karipides and her colleague Henry Kurth formed The Dance Theatre of Kathryn Karipides and Henry Kurth at Case Western. There she worked for ten years as co-director, choreographer, and principal dancer. Karipides had little formal dance training, participating primarily in the Greek dancing style prevalent in her native community. It wasn't until she attended college at Miami University (Ohio) that Karipides began her formal dance education. In 1956, Karipides graduated from Miami University with a B.S. Degree in Physical Education. Upon graduation, Karipides began her career at the Flora Stone Mather College for Women, part of Western Reserve University, now Case Western Reserve University. Karipides grew the college's dance program from a physical education class program within its theater department. Karipides was promoted to associate professor with tenure in 1963.

Intensive studies When Karipides started her career at Case Western Reserve University, she spent her summers studying modern dance outside of the institution. For three summers, Karipides studied at Connecticut College. At Connecticut College, Karipides studied with modern dance artists including Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham, Lucas Hoving, José Limón, and Louis Horst. In 1974, Karipides received the Cleveland Arts Prize for Dance. After winning this award, Karipides became closely involved with the organization, joining the board and chairing the Dance Prize Committee.

Other awards and honors Carl F. Wittke Award for outstanding undergraduate teaching (CWRU) Samuel B. and Virginia C. Knight Professor of Humanities Honoree (CWRU) OhioDance Award Northern Ohio Live Award of Achievement for Dance YWCA Career Women of Achievement Award for the Cultural Arts Dionysian Award Recipient (Cleveland Chapter, American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association)

Notable premieres Source: Burning Water A Galaxy of Instants Lyre of Orpheus By Disposition of Angels The Praise of Folly With Antecedents: Mounds Landscape with Creature Applause Anatoli Four by Four