To save as a PDF, click "Print" and select "Save as PDF" or "Print to PDF" from the Destination dropdown. On a mobile device, click the "Share" button, then choose "Print" and "Save as PDF".
Available From UC Press
Reading Dancing
Bodies and Subjects in Contemporary American Dance
Winner of the Dance Perspectives Foundation de la Torre Bueno Prize
Recent approaches to dance composition, seen in the works of Merce Cunningham and the Judson Church performances of the early 1960s, suggest the possibility for a new theory of choreographic meaning. Borrowing from contemporary semiotics and post-structuralist criticism, Reading Dancing outlines four distinct models for representation in dance which are illustrated, first, through an analysis of the works of contemporary choreographers Deborah Hay, George Balanchine, Martha Graham, and Merce Cunningham, and then through reference to historical examples beginning with court ballets of the Renaissance. The comparison of these four approaches to representation affirms the unparalleled diversity of choreographic methods in American dance, and also suggests a critical perspective from which to reflect on dance making and viewing.
Recent approaches to dance composition, seen in the works of Merce Cunningham and the Judson Church performances of the early 1960s, suggest the possibility for a new theory of choreographic meaning. Borrowing from contemporary semiotics and post-structuralist criticism, Reading Dancing outlines four distinct models for representation in dance which are illustrated, first, through an analysis of the works of contemporary choreographers Deborah Hay, George Balanchine, Martha Graham, and Merce Cunningham, and then through reference to historical examples beginning with court ballets of the Renaissance. The comparison of these four approaches to representation affirms the unparalleled diversity of choreographic methods in American dance, and also suggests a critical perspective from which to reflect on dance making and viewing.
"An eloquent and articulate book."—Meredith Monk
"Reading Dancing is a generous and articulate gift to the world of dance/performance appreciation."—Deborah Hay, Artistic Director of the Deborah Hay Dance Company
"A valuable primer for dancers and choreographers."—Yvonne Rainer Choreographer/Filmmaker
"Reading Dancing is a generous and articulate gift to the world of dance/performance appreciation."—Deborah Hay, Artistic Director of the Deborah Hay Dance Company
"A valuable primer for dancers and choreographers."—Yvonne Rainer Choreographer/Filmmaker