Janet Eilber's cinematic entrance was marked by a pivotal role in the 1981 film "Whose Life Is It Anyway?", a gripping and humorous drama that skillfully translated Brian Clark's acclaimed Broadway and London stage hit to the silver screen, alongside the talented Richard Dreyfuss.
Before making her mark in the world of cinema, Eilber had already gained recognition on the esteemed Broadway stage, taking on the lead role in Bob Fosse's groundbreaking musical "Dancin'", which showcased her impressive range and versatility as a performer. Additionally, she appeared alongside the esteemed Michael York in the short-lived but memorable musical production "The Little Prince and the Aviator".
Janet's life began on a sweltering summer day, July 27, 1951, in the bustling metropolis of Detroit, Michigan, USA. As a young and ambitious individual, she sought out a rigorous arts education, ultimately attending the prestigious Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan. Following her time at Interlochen, Janet relocated to the vibrant city of New York, where she enrolled in the esteemed Juilliard School.
Janet's illustrious career in dance began with her graduation from the prestigious Juilliard institution, where she went on to become a valued and integral member of the renowned Martha Graham troupe. Throughout her tenure with the company, Janet had the privilege of performing in numerous productions, bringing to life many of the iconic roles originally danced by the visionary Martha Graham herself. In addition to these esteemed performances, Janet was also entrusted with parts specially choreographed for her by the legendary choreographer, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft.
As a member of the Martha Graham troupe, Janet had the opportunity to dance alongside some of the most esteemed performers in the world, including the incomparable Rudolf Nureyev. Together, they brought to life the dramatic and poignant stories of "The Scarlet Letter" and "Lucifer", two productions that showcased Janet's technical proficiency and artistic expression.
Janet's career was not limited to the stage, as she was also honored to serve as a soloist at the White House during a prestigious ceremony. It was during this event that President Jimmy Carter presented the esteemed Medal of Freedom to Martha Graham, a fitting tribute to her groundbreaking contributions to the world of dance. As Janet took center stage alongside the esteemed honoree, she was a symbol of the enduring legacy of Martha Graham's work, and a testament to the impact that dance can have on individuals and society as a whole.
Janet's television debut was a pivotal moment in her career, marking the beginning of her journey in the world of entertainment, as she made her small screen debut in the 1982 ABC-TV movie "This Is Kate Bennett...", a production that showcased her impressive acting skills and versatility, as she took on the role of an investigative reporter, a character that demanded a high level of intensity and drama, as she delved into the world of investigative journalism, uncovering a story that was not only complex but also explosive, a performance that left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it, including Walter Mirisch, a renowned filmmaker, who was so impressed by her talent that he went on to cast her in his 1983 film "Romantic Comedy".
Janet has been serving as the Artistic Director of the prestigious Martha Graham Center of Contemporary Dance since the year 2005, dedicating herself to the ambitious task of revolutionizing the way audiences engage with the timeless masterworks of Graham's iconic legacy. To achieve this goal, she has spearheaded a diverse array of innovative initiatives, designed to broaden the appeal of these classical pieces to a wider and more diverse audience.
One of the key strategies employed by Janet has been the development of contextual programming, carefully crafted to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Graham masterworks. This has involved collaborating with leading scholars, historians, and artists to create richly layered and thought-provoking programs that shed new light on the cultural, historical, and artistic contexts in which Graham's works were created.
In addition to her work in programming, Janet has also focused on building strong educational and community partnerships, recognizing the importance of fostering a sense of ownership and connection among local audiences. Through these partnerships, she has worked closely with schools, community centers, and other organizations to develop programs that make the Graham masterworks accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Janet has also been at the forefront of leveraging new media to reach a wider audience, utilizing cutting-edge technologies to bring the Graham masterworks to life in innovative and engaging ways. This has included the development of digital platforms, social media campaigns, and other online initiatives designed to showcase the beauty and relevance of Graham's works in the digital age.
Another key aspect of Janet's vision has been the commissioning of new works, which has enabled the Martha Graham Center to stay relevant and fresh while still honoring the legacy of Graham's pioneering spirit. Through these commissions, she has encouraged a new generation of choreographers and artists to draw inspiration from Graham's works, while also pushing the boundaries of contemporary dance.
Finally, Janet has also been instrumental in creating a range of creative events and performances that celebrate the intersection of dance, music, and visual art. These events have provided a unique and captivating way for audiences to experience the Graham masterworks, while also showcasing the talents of local and international artists.
Throughout her tenure as Artistic Director, Janet has demonstrated a deep commitment to the legacy of Martha Graham, while also embracing the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Her innovative approach has helped to ensure the continued relevance and vitality of the Martha Graham Center, while also inspiring a new generation of artists and audiences to explore the rich and enduring world of Graham's masterworks.
Janet's illustrious career has spanned multiple platforms, including films, television, and the esteemed stages of Broadway. Under the guidance of renowned directors Agnes de Mille and Bob Fosse, she has had the privilege of honing her craft and bringing her unique artistic vision to life.
In addition to her impressive body of work, Janet has been recognized for her contributions to the world of American modern dance. Her meticulous reconstruction and captivating performance of seminal pieces have earned her a total of four prestigious Lester Horton Awards, a testament to her dedication and mastery of her craft.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Janet has also made a lasting impact through her work in arts education. As the Director of Arts Education for the Dana Foundation, she has played a vital role in shaping the next generation of artists and arts administrators. Her tireless efforts to promote arts education and accessibility have been a beacon of hope for countless young people and a testament to her enduring commitment to the arts.
Janet's legacy extends far beyond her own remarkable achievements, however. As a Trustee Emeritus of Interlochen Center for the Arts, she has helped to shape the institution's mission and vision, ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to benefit from the same life-changing experiences that she has had. Through her work, Janet has left an indelible mark on the world of arts and education, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Janet, a remarkable individual, has entered into a long-term committed partnership with John Warren, a talented and accomplished screenwriter and director, with whom she has had the joy of sharing two delightful daughters, Madeline and Eva, who bring immense happiness and fulfillment to her life.
