Description
This collection contains the papers of
dance studio founder and choreographer Joseph Rickard (1918-1994), and includes manuscripts,
printed material, ephemera, music scores, production files, and photographs related to the
First Negro Classical Ballet and Negro Classical Ballet, which Rickard founded, and local
ballets in San Gabriel, California. The papers are especially strong as a visual record with
a large number of photographs, publicity material, costume sketches, and printed
posters.
Background
Joseph Rickard (1918-1994) was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, September 17, 1918. He moved to
Los Angeles in the 1930s to study ballet with Bronislava and Irina Nijinska but his real
gifts lay in teaching (especially adults) and choreography. In 1946, he overheard an
African-American woman being turned away from a dance studio where she sought lessons for
her daughter; Rickard, from that moment, became determined to start his own dance studio
where he could train African-American dancers in classical ballet.
Extent
21.75 Linear Feet
(2,513 pieces in 34 boxes)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at
the Huntington Library for more information.