Dance as a Human Experience

What is dance? When did dance begin? What is it that defines this human experience?

Dance as a Human Experience is a foray into the wide and immense world of dance. This text explores and evaluates dance and its various roles in society throughout history. It begins by examining dance’s role as a communal negotiator by looking back on the impact of tribal and communal dances, then as a sacred communicator discovering its contribution to religion.

In addition, it discusses dance as a historical enforcer and societal challenger as it dives into the realm of ballet and modern dance. Dance as a relational builder and how ballroom dance enforces gender roles are investigated as well.

Dance as a Human Experience delves into dance as a mainstream entertainer taking a look at Broadway/Hollywood, dance as a silence breaker and social activist analyzing percussive dances, and finally, dance as a storyteller and media creator exploring contemporary dance and viewing dance on film. At the core, it explores what it is to be human through the artistic enterprise of dance.