What Is Dance?: Readings in Theory and Criticism (Galaxy Books) [Paperback]

Roger Copeland (Author), Marshall Cohen (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0195031970 | ISBN-13: 978-0195031973 | Publication Date: April 7, 1983

A wide variety of writing is included in this anthology, from the practical criticism of Arlene Croce and David Denby to the more scholarly work of Rudoloph Arnheim, Suzanne Langer, and Havelock Ellis. The collection is divided into seven sections: What is Dance?; the Dance Medium; Dance and the Other Arts; Genre and Style; Language, Notation, and Identity; Dance Criticism; and Dance and Society.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"The springy athleticism captured here is a trademark of House's highly musical choreography. Indeed, they often impart meaty information pertinent to the article in question. One of the chief pleasures of reading the IED"S biographical articles is that it's authors write of their subjects with liveliness, sympathy and even affection. Among the most compelling of these essays on topics related to dance are those which explain how to put it on the stage, and they bring a sense of immediacy that underscores the flesh-and-blood aliveness of the art." Journal of American Musicological Society

"A tremendously valuable book, a book that will show students of the art, or those who have a mind to, how to grow up intellectually."--Joan Ross Acocella, Dance Magazine

"From 'Swan Lake' to striptease, a comprehensive, carefully edited compendium."--Booklist

"A wonderful book....Packed with the ways and byways of dance through history to today....It belongs in every library and in the duffle bag of every dancer."--Glenn Giffin, The Denver Post

"A comprehensive, provocative, always entertaining anthology on dance....With the emergence of such a distinguished anthology, our own epoch is taking the crucial steps [towards] thinking, writing, and reading about [dance]."--Joyce Caruso, Performing Arts Journal

"Always thought-provoking and excellently written pieces."--Library Journal

"An invaluable contribution to the serious study of dance."--George L. George, Backstage

"A wonderful, and sometimes surprising, selection."--Joann W. Kealiinohomoku, Northern Arizonaa University

"I have used this as one of two required texts for my Dance History class for 6 years. The range of its readings is broad and challenging."--Linda H. Snininch, SUNY/Buffalo

About the Author

Roger Copeland is an Associate Professor of Theater and Dance. Marshall Cohen is at University of Southern California, Los Angeles.

Product Details

• Paperback: 592 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (April 7, 1983)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195031970
• ISBN-13: 978-0195031973
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #130,044 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #71 in Books > Arts & Photography > Performing Arts > Dance