Founder of the Yard Dies at 84

by Gwyn McAllister

Patricia Nanon, of New York City and Chilmark, Massachusetts, died peacefully on February 29, in her home in New York City surrounded by her loving daughters. She was 84. Ms. Nanon, a choreographer, was Founder and long time Artistic Director of The Yard, a colony for the performing arts on Martha's Vineyard.

Patricia's vision led to the creation of The Yard, in 1972, to foster
modern dance choreography. Her dedication and genius allowed many of
the dance world's choreographic stars to create and dance new works and
gave hundreds of choreographers and dancers the opportunity to grow and
advance in their chosen fields. Her gift to The Yard Inc. in 2007 of
property in Chilmark, Massachusetts, including the theatre and the
resident houses that will allow The Yard, Inc. to
continue her mission.

The memorial celebration for Patricia will be this Friday, March 7 at 3:30 at Campbell Funeral Chapel, 1076 Madison Ave, at the corner of 81st Street, New York City. Telephone 212 288 3500. There will be another celebration later, with details to be announced.