Product Description: "This title examines Western dance's original European roots, the ways and styles in which it has expanded and changed, and how it has grown into such an integral part of Western culture."--Publisher's website.

A concise introduction to the study of dance ranging from the practical aspects such as technique and choreography to more theoretical considerations such as aesthetic appreciation and the place of dance in different cultures. This book answers questions such as: Exactly how do we define dance? What kinds of people dance and what kind of training is necessary? How are dances made? What do we know about dance history? Featuring a glossary, chronology of dance history and list of useful websites, this book is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in the study of dance.

Traces the development of ballet, describes influential choreographers, dances, and dancers, and looks at modern trends in dance

Written for the dance novice, this book is a concise, thorough, and accurate history of all forms of dance. It gives a brief biography of many of the notable dancers and choreographers who have contributed to each form of dance, and provides, in a nutshell, the information needed to expand the enjoyment of performance. It also details the history of dance from its earliest beginnings and covers the intersection of dance and religion, social dance, ballet, modern dance, tap, jazz, film dance, and contemporary dance.