Louis Johnson (Finding Aid)

Louis Johnson

1930 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: White Potatoes

Favorite Time of Year: Fall

Favorite Vacation Spot: Harlem, New York

Interview Length: 137 minutes

Interview Date(s): June 9, 2005

Interview Location(s): New York, New York

Abstract

Louis Johnson recalls his family background and his childhood. He remembers his early involvement in acrobatics and dance, and lists influential dancers who inspired him. Louis Johnson recalls his experiences at the School of American Ballet. He talks about some of the successes in his career, including his productions of 'The House of Flowers,' 'Damn Yankees!,' and 'Hallelujah Baby.' Johnson also recalls his transition from dancing to choreography. Louis Johnson reflects on his style of choreography, and how he applies it to new projects. He recalls his years in Atlanta, Georgia, and Harlem, New York, and discusses a number of well-known performers with whom he has worked. Louis Johnson recalls his years with the Howard University dance department. He remembers his success with such productions as 'Treemonisha,' 'The Wiz,' and 'Ebony Game.' Johnson also recounts a number of awards he won, and reflects on the career of Debbie Allen. Louis Johnson remembers his productions of 'The Ebony Game,' 'Miss Truth,' 'Jazzbo Brown,' and 'Time and the Wind.' In recalling those productions, he comments on the careers of many performers whom he has known, such as Pearl Primus and Katherine Dunham. Johnson concludes by reflecting on his life, including how he dealt with discrimination in his career.

48 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)