This book is about a group of geniuses who created a new form of art. The art was American modern dance; the geniuses, while as different from each other in style, background, and influence as ballet is from modern dance, were united in purpose: They wished to create a new theatrical dance form that was serious, unique, and most important, not classical ballet. Joseph H. Mazo tells the story of the lives and works of these choreographer-dancers. By concentrating on those artists who fashioned a particular style of modern dance or epitomized a high point in dance development, Joe Mazo creates a vivid and lively history of American dance itself. \"Prime Movers\" begins with Loie Fuller, Isadora Duncan, and Ruth St. Denis, the three goddesses of modern dance. However, Ruth St. Denis, with her husband and partner, Ted Shawn, not only articulated teachable techniques but created the Denishawn School. Two graduates of the Denishawn School -- Doris Humphrey and Martha Graham -- went on to establish American dance as the serious art it is today. Graham also proved to be the most significant link to the third generation of American dancers. Merce Cunningham, Paul Taylor, and Erick Hawkins have all danced in Graham's company, and most of today's innovators have studied with her. \"Prime Movers\" is the book for anyone who loves dance or for anyone who wants to know what it's all about. -- From publisher's description.