PBS Documentary Chronicles Martha Graham Dance Company's Centennial Celebrations

A new two-part PBS documentary titled 'We Are Our Time' follows the Martha Graham Dance Company as it marks its 100th anniversary. The film, premiering on March 27 with a second part on April 3, focuses on the company's current activities rather than solely on its founder. It captures rehearsals, tours, and performances over a two-and-a-half-year period. The documentary includes archival footage used selectively, such as a split-screen comparison of Martha Graham in 'Lamentation' (1930) with current principal dancer Leslie Andrea Williams performing the same piece. Meryl Streep provides voiceover narration, reading Graham's words. The film shows choreographer Jamar Roberts creating 'We the People' (2024), his first work for the company, set to music by Rhiannon Giddens. Artistic director Janet Eilber, who has led the company since 2005, discusses efforts to expand the repertoire while honoring Graham's innovative spirit. The documentary follows the company on tour to China and Europe, referencing Graham's 1936 refusal to perform at the Berlin Olympics. It also covers the company's impending move from its Westbeth headquarters in May to new Midtown studios. The centennial includes performances at New York's City Center, near the site of Graham's 1926 debut at the 48th Street Theatre. The film highlights educational outreach, such as a collaboration with Minneapolis high school students who created their own version of Graham's 'American Document.' Directors Peter Schnall and Cyndee Readdean aimed to avoid a conventional historical approach, focusing instead on contemporary dancers and their connections to Graham's legacy.