Title: Marion Cito: The Elegant Force Behind Tanztheater Wuppertal's Enchanting Aesthetic
We bid farewell to Marion Cito, the long-time costume designer and dancer of the renowned Tanztheater Wuppertal, who passed away at the age of 85 in Wuppertal, as announced by the company on Sunday evening. Known for her captivating collaborations with Pina Bausch, Cito brought an enchanting flair to Tanztheater Wuppertal's productions for over two decades.
An Elegant Hand in Pina Bausch's Dances
Marion Cito, the unsung heroine of Tanztheater Wuppertal, was initially recruited by Pina Bausch as an assistant and dancer in 1976. Her exceptional talent eventually led her to take over costume design from 1980, and for the following 29 years, Cito's designs played an integral role in maintaining the unforgettable appearance of the Tanztheater.
Homepage Dance Theater
A Contribution that Glowed Sensually
According to dance expert Norbert Servos, Cito's designs skillfully established a delicate balance between everyday casualness and elegance, giving Tanztheater Wuppertal a seductively rich hue. She managed to weave an air of sensuality around the dance theater, ensuring that, despite its grounding in reality, it was always surrounded by a magical aura.
The Signature of Cito's Costume Design
Marion Cito's impact on Tanztheater Wuppertal's aesthetic extended far beyond her collaboration with Pina Bausch. Her designs featured simple, elegant dresses for the women, often barely designed slips, as well as full-length gowns, and loose trousers and shirts for the men. Her creations became synonymous with the Tanztheater's distinctive visual style.
Cito contributed her expertise to many of Pina Bausch's productions, such as "Vollmond," which showcased an elaborate set designed by Peter Pabst. The costumes for "Vollmond" were particularly striking, merging seamlessly with the dancers as they moved through the water and interacted with the set.
Little-known fact: In "Vollmond," when the dancers' movements and interactions with the water were highlighted, Mexican crafts were often used to create vibrant and colorful costumes, providing a deeply alternative tension to Bausch's choreographic language.
A Celebrated Contribution
Cito's designs were consistently recognized and celebrated in productions such as "Vollmond." Critics noted the visceral experience of seeing the dancers in their silky evening gowns, designed by Cito, which further immersed the audience in Bausch's elemental and poetic world.
In Memory of an Indispensable Collaborator
Marion Cito's work will forever be cherished as a vital component of Tanztheater Wuppertal, and her passing is a monumental loss to the world of dance theater. Her dedication, talent, and passion have left an indelible mark on the company's history and will continue to inspire future generations.
Also in Dance Theater
Source:
