Aakesson, Birgit (1908–2001)

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Aakesson, Birgit (1908–2001)

Swedish dancer and choreographer. Name variations: Birgit Akesson; called "Picasso of Dance." Born in Malmo, Sweden, Mar 24, 1908; died in Stockholm, Mar 24, 2001; studied with Mary Wigman, 1929–31; children: Mona Moeller-Nielsen.

Debuted in Paris at Vieux Colombier (1934); gave recitals in Sweden and European countries; appeared in Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival in US (1955); staged Sisyphus for Royal Swedish Ballet, her 1st production with a professional troupe (1957); staged The Minotaur (1958), Rites (1960), and Play for Eight (1962), and choreographed Icaros (1963); while a member of artistic council responsible for policy for Royal Swedish Ballet (1963 on), conceived many ballets in collaboration with Norwegian pianist Kaare Gundersen; considered founding mother of Swedish modern dance along with Birgit Cullberg; awarded the gold medal of the Swedish Academy (1998).

See also Women in World History.