Established by Cunningham in 2000 and recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation in 2002, the Trust will serve as the custodian for his work following the planned closure of the Cunningham Dance Foundation on June 30, 2012. The mission of the Trust is to preserve, enhance, and maintain the integrity of the choreographic and other artistic works of Merce Cunningham, and make such works available for the benefit of the public.
In 2012, the Trust established headquarters at New York City Center, where it offers daily classes in Cunningham Technique™. The Trust also launched a pilot program, the Cunningham Fellowship, through which a stipend will be awarded to individuals to restage a Cunningham work during a four-week intensive workshop. The Trust will continue to license Cunningham works to leading dance companies and educational institutions worldwide, and will partner with cultural institutions to mount special projects, performances, and exhibitions that celebrate Cunningham’s artistic achievements.