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Barton Mumaw
(August 20, 1912 - June 18, 2001) U.S.A.

Barton Mumaw

Dancer, choreographer

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Barton Mumaw was born in Hazleton, Pennsylvania and raised in Eustus, Florida where he attended school. Later he studied at the Conservatory of Music at Rollins College before joining Shawn's company.

Barton, who was both Shawn's leading dancer and his lover for many years, wrote candidly about their passionate partnership.

Barton MumawIn his memoir Barton revealed that he had been Shawn's lover for many years and recorded how their involvement affected every aspect of their professional lives.

So that no one could accuse dance of being morally questionable, the two took pains to conceal the true nature of their relationship.

Barton was even forbidden to call Shawn by his first name in public.

Shawn choreographed solos for Barton, who also created works of his own, which he began presenting in dance concerts.

Reviewing a performance by him in The New York Times in 1941, John Martin described him as ''excellently equipped to be a dancer,'' adding, ''He moves easily and well and has possibilities of technical brilliance.''

After serving in the Air Force from 1942 to 1946, Barton continued to offer modern-dance programs and appeared in the Broadway productions of ''Out of This World,'' ''The Golden Apple'' and ''My Fair Lady.''

Barton died in Clearwater, Florida, aged 89. He is survived by his companion, Marvin Morgenstern.

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