In March 2011, the Walker announced the single largest visual arts acquisition in its history: sets, props, costumes, and selected documentation of visionary choreographer Merce Cunningham (1919–2009), a towering figure in American art and culture. Known for his collaborations with numerous leading visual and musical artists and designers of the past 60 years, he forever changed the essence of dance. In celebration of a nearly 50-year relationship with Cunningham, the Walker offers a 10-day festival of dance works, talks, and workshops as well as the first of
several exhibitions drawn from this new collection. The festival concludes with what will be
Minnesota’s final chance to see the Merce Cunningham Dance Company before this exquisite group of dancers disbands (per Cunningham’s wishes) at the end of 2011.