Yuan, Tina (c. 1950–)

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Yuan, Tina (c. 1950–)

Chinese modern dancer. Name variations: Tina Yuan Lems. Born c. 1950 in Shanghai, China.

Moved to New York City to train at Juilliard School and at studio of Martha Graham; was a principal dancer with Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, appearing in a range of Ailey's works, as well as in works by Talley Beatty, Pearl Primus, and James Truitte; created roles in Janet Collins Canticle of the Elements (1974), Jennifer Muller's Crossword (1977), and Yuriko's Events I and II; founded East-West Contemporary Dance Company which she also co-directed; created range of works for that company, often in collaboration with Richard Ornellas; served as director of Chinese Dance Company in NY, an innovative group that integrated modern dance with traditional Chinese and Taiwanese movements. Works of choreography include Suite of Taiwanese Dances (1972), The Peacock (1972), Martian Dances (1972), Dances of the Border Provinces (1972), Legend of the White Snake Lady (1972) and Trilogy (1975).