Why was Frontier an important work for Martha Graham?

Frontier (1935) was a landmark work in Martha Graham’s career for several significant reasons:

• Innovation in Stagecraft: It initiated the use of decor in Graham’s repertoire and marked the beginning of her long, distinguished collaboration with the Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi. Through this partnership, Graham developed the use of three-dimensional set pieces rather than traditional flats and drops, a major innovation in her stagecraft.1
• Thematic Significance: The choreography of Frontier symbolized the frontier woman’s achievement of mastery over an uncharted domain, reflecting Graham’s interest in exploring the spiritual and emotional essence of human beings through dance.1
• Artistic Development: The work featured a noted score by her musical director Louis Horst, who was a strong and continuing influence throughout her early career.1

By moving away from the exoticism of her earlier years, Frontier helped solidify Graham’s reputation as a pioneer of modern dance who sought to reveal the inner emotional life of her characters.1