Mabel Elsworth Todd is considered the founder of what has come to be known as 'Ideokinesis', a form of somatic education that became popular in the 1930s amongst dancers and health professionals. Todd's ideas involved using anatomically based, creative visual imagery and consciously relaxed volition to create and refine neuromuscular coordination. Lulu Sweigard, who coined the term Ideokinesis, and Barbara Clark furthered Todd's work. Todd's work was published in her book The Thinking Body (1937), which is now considered by modern dance schools to be a classic study of physiology and the psychology of movement. Her work influenced many somatic awareness professionals of her day, and is often cited along with The Feldenkrais method for its focus on the subtle influence of unconscious intention and attention. Read more

An illustrated guide to anatomy and biomechanics for aerialists who want to optimize their performance and train safelySpecifically designed for aerialists—including those who do trapeze, silks, and other aerial arts— Applied Anatomy of Aerial Arts is an invaluable resource for those who want to optimize their performance and train safely.   Using a biomechanical and movement-based approach, Emily Scherb—a physical therapist who specializes in the care, treatment, and education of circus performers—explains the anatomical rationale for progressions of learning and demonstrates simple movements to achieve the coordination, muscular control, strength, and fitness to hang with correct form, how to progress from hanging into a pull up, an inversion, and beyond with a strong center, precise muscle sequencing, and ease of movement.   Aerialists will learn how bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues allow for specific movements and gain an appreciation for concepts of proximal stability.     This full-color illustrated guidelays a solid foundation for beginners and advanced students with a wealth of insights into their own performance as well as refreshers on fundamentals in warm ups and conditioning. It explains how to structure a training session, how to care for injuries, and best practices for basic self first aid. Read more

Eric Franklin’s classic reference is back in a new full-color edition, complete with new material and exercises for instructors to use with their dancers, other performing artists, athletes, and classes.In Dynamic Alignment Through Imagery, Third Edition, Franklin—an internationally renowned teacher, dancer, and choreographer who has been sharing his imagery techniques for more than 35 years—teaches the use of imagery to increase self-awareness, improve body image, and apply anatomical and biomechanical principles for more efficient movement.This expanded new edition includesmore than 600 anatomical imagery exercises to improve posture and body alignment, release excess tension, and prevent injuries;over 500 full-color illustrations to help readers visualize the exercises and use them in various contexts;four audio files containing guided imagery exercises led by Franklin and set to music; andupdated chapters throughout the book, including new material and exercises to address fasciae and connective tissue.“The pictures and the words in your mind influence the feelings in your body, which in turn feed your thoughts and mental pictures,” Franklin says. “To create powerful and dynamic alignment, you need to fertilize your mind and body with constructive information and weed out destructive thoughts.”This book will help readers do just that as they discover their natural flexibility and increase their power to move. Franklin expertly guides readers through foundational concepts of posture, dynamic alignment, and imagery; explores different types of imagery and guidelines for using them; and delves into biomechanical and anatomical principles, including the body’s center and gravity, the laws of motion and force systems, and joint and muscle function. He then provides exercises for anatomical imagery, covering every area of the body from head to toe. The book closes with two critical chapters on defining dynamic alignment and on integrating dynamic alignment exercises into workouts and programs.Dynamic Alignment Through Imagery, Third Edition, will help readers experience the biomechanical and anatomical principles that are crucial to athletes, dancers, other performing artists, and yoga and Pilates practitioners. The techniques and exercises presented in the book will guide readers in improving their posture—and will positively affect their thoughts and attitudes about themselves and others and help them feel better, both mentally and physically.Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and exam. Read more

Salsa Dancing & Rueda de Casino Guidebook for Beginner to Advanced Dancers invites you on an exciting journey through the rich world of Latin dance. Written by Barbara Bernstein, a seasoned instructor with over 20 years of experience, this guide is a treasure trove of insights, from the basics to advanced techniques, all designed to help you shine on the dance floor. This guide has something for everyone.At its heart, this book celebrates the profound sense of community and joy that dance creates. Through synchronized movements, dancers build trust, deepen friendships, and discover a renewed sense of well-being (this is called “muscular bonding”). Bernstein’s engaging, down-to-earth style, combined with “laugh-out-loud” notes, vibrant photos, and personal anecdotes, turns learning into a joyful experience.The guide covers a full range of topics for dancers of all levels, from leading and following to styling tips for your arms, hips, legs, and more. You’ll progress through the fundamental concepts, then dive into more complex moves.To enhance your journey, the guide also includes tutorials with links to over 500 videos from the Danceintime Studio for visual guidance. Hardcopy readers can access these by typing in one link to reach a webpage where all video links are organized in sequence.This is definitely a “must read” for dance enthusiasts.Inside, you’ll find:Part 1: Learning the StepsDetailed written information and videos of beginning, intermediate, and advanced dance moves. Countless moves to thrill you and share with your friends!Part 2: Dancing WellWays to enrich your dancing with embellishments and styling that uses full body movement and sharp timing. Features a deep dive into lead-and-follow interaction, where everything one dancer does affects what their partner can do.Part 3: Thoughts on Learning to DanceAn innovative approach to viewing dance as a gradual journey rather than as a binary matter of “knowing” or “not knowing” steps. Becoming good at anything requires patiently advancing along a continuum of skill. Tips for dance presentations and spatial awareness are also addressed.Part 4: Advanced SkillsIdeas on how to blend multiple moves into long, impressive sequences and ways you can adapt to dancing with someone trained in a different Salsa style. Includes tips for calling Rueda de Casino and information on mind-blowing Rueda structures and “structure combinations!”Part 5: Important Additional DimensionsThe social and health benefits of synchronized group movement. Dive into the clave rhythm and triplet syncopation, and explore various music styles like Son and Timba. Learn about dance floor etiquette and safety practices.Part 6: The Big Picture: Closing ThoughtsPerspective on common debates among dancers, such as on1 versus on2 timing, dance style nomenclature and back rocks. Get a quick overview of Salsa styles (NY, L.A., Miami) and other Latin dances like Mambo, Merengue, Bachata, and Cha Cha Cha.AppendicesDance humor, fun facts, and video and movie recommendations to more fully immerse yourself in dance culture.Let Barbara Bernstein guide you through this captivating world where dance has healing power and shapes your life both on and off the floor. Experience the joy, community, and profound spirit that come with dancing Salsa and Rueda de Casino.Join the Movement! Read more

Karen Clippinger’s first two editions of Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology were hailed as the standard in the field. This third edition builds on that success by retaining its scientific perspective while making the material even more accessible to students and teachers and by bringing in a significant amount of new material.What’s New? In an effort to further enhance learning, Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology offers a wealth of new material and tools to make this edition the best yet: Nearly 300 anatomical illustrations—now in full color to clearly show muscle movements and technique considerations, setting the book apart from others in its field A new introductory chapter to cover basic terminology all in one place A new recurring Understanding Check element that helps students demonstrate their grasp of the material before moving on An updated suite of online instructor and student ancillaries to support the text New interactive art and table activities that aid with identifying bones and muscles and learning muscle actions, delivered online through HKPropelMore diverse dance styles addressed throughout the book and represented in photographs The instructor guide features a sample syllabus and course outline, chapter outlines, lab assignments, and sample tests. An expanded presentation package provides more PowerPoint slides and additional graphics, now in color, that reinforce each chapter’s key points. In this edition, the number of slides has increased from 285 to more than 600, and the presentation package now contains over 100 photos. Through HKPropel, students have access to interactive Understanding Check activities, flash cards, practice quizzes with automatic feedback, and 19 video clips that demonstrate technique and offer correction guidance. The final chapter is revised to provide a summary and applications, including more practical content in the form of summary figures or tables for bones, joints, muscle actions, and alignment evaluation, as well as sample mat exercises for dance conditioning. And throughout the book, Clippinger has updated content to simplify, add more practical material, and share best practices for injury prevention and rehabilitation.Primary Focus The third edition ot the book retains its emphasis on presenting the anatomical and kinesiological material that is essential for dancers to understand. The text includes descriptions of joint structure, key muscles, movement analysis, sample strength and flexibility exercises, common alignment problems, select joint mechanics, and special considerations for dance for each region of the body. The third edition still features the Concept Demonstration and Dance Cues special elements. The former provides movement experiences for dancers to better understand potentially difficult concepts, while the latter helps the dancer reflect on the anatomical basis of commonly used cues used in teaching dance technique.Empowers Instructors and Dancers This new edition of Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology will give teachers a clearer picture of the anatomical and kinesiological factors that aid in generating technique cues and identifying technique problems, and it will help them become more effective and empower dancers to realize their potential and artistic vision. Note: A code for accessing HKPropel is included with this ebook. Read more

In this updated rich resource for actors, renowned movement teachers and directors reveal the physical skills needed for the stage and the screen. Readers will gain remarkable insights into the physical skills and techniques used in a wide variety of performance styles through ready-to-use exercises and approaches. Included in this new edition are chapters covering:Stage combatYoga for actorsMartial artsBody-mind centeringAuthentic movementBartenieff fundamentalsGrotowski-based movementThose who want to pursue serious training will be able to consult the appendix for listings of the best teachers and schools in the country. This inspiring collection is a must-read for all actors, directors, and teachers of theater looking for stimulation and new approaches.Allworth Press, an imprint of Skyhorse Publishing, publishes a broad range of books on the visual and performing arts, with emphasis on the business of art. Our titles cover subjects such as graphic design, theater, branding, fine art, photography, interior design, writing, acting, film, how to start careers, business and legal forms, business practices, and more. While we don't aspire to publish a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are deeply committed to quality books that help creative professionals succeed and thrive. We often publish in areas overlooked by other publishers and welcome the author whose expertise can help our audience of readers. Read more

Specifically geared towards the beginning to intermediate adult aerial silks student, this handbook is a valuable resource for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanics that go into learning this challenging art form. Kerry Wee is a seasoned professional dancer and teacher that has toured the world and performed behind some of the biggest names in music. Through her experiences and travels, she has garnered a knowledge of how the dance body works and how to prevent common injuries. Wrap Your Head Around Silks is a compilation of those lessons, along with changes in the anatomy and the psychological challenges that come along with it. This book is designed to be a companion to an aerialist's training, for those looking for a deeper meaning to the basic instruction given in a class setting . This will guide you through every aspect of starting your aerial silks journey whether it be learning how to climb, finding your spinal alignment or even just mastering the enviable toe point. Beyond just the anatomical, this will also instruct you on class etiquette and pinpointing your body weaknesses that you might not be aware of. Read more

Renowned master teacher Eric Franklin has thoroughly updated his classic text, Dance Imagery for Technique and Performance, providing dancers and dance educators with a deep understanding of how they can use imagery to improve their dancing and artistic expression in class and in performance. These features are new to this edition: •Two chapters include background, history, theory, and uses of imagery. •294 exercises offer dancers and dance educators greater opportunities to experience how imagery can enhance technique and performance. •133 illustrations facilitate the use of imagery to improve technique, artistic expression, and performance. •Four exercises taught by Franklin and available on HK’s website help dancers with essential rest and relaxation techniques. Franklin provides hundreds of imagery exercises to refine improvisation, technique, and choreography. The 295 illustrations cover the major topics in the book, showing exercises to use in technique, artistic expression, and performance. In addition, Franklin supplies imagery exercises that can restore and regenerate the body through massage, touch, and stretching. And he offers guidance in using imagery to convey information about a dancer’s steps and to clarify the intent and content of movement. This new edition of Dance Imagery for Technique and Performance can be used with Franklin’s Dynamic Alignment Through Imagery, Second Edition, or on its own. Either way, readers will learn how to combine technical expertise with imagery skills to enrich their performance, and they will discover methods they can use to explore how imagery connects with dance improvisation and technique. Dance Imagery for Technique and Performance uses improvisation exercises to help readers investigate new inner landscapes to create and communicate various movement qualities, provides guidelines for applying imagery in the dance class, and helps dancers expand their repertoire of expressiveness in technique and performance across ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. This expanded edition of Dance Imagery for Technique and Performance supplies imagery tools for enhancing or preparing for performance, and it introduces the importance of imagery in dancing and teaching dance. Franklin’s method of using imagery in dance is displayed throughout this lavishly illustrated book, and the research from scientific and dance literature that supports Franklin’s method is detailed. The text, exercises, and illustrations make this book a practical resource for dancers and dance educators alike. Read more

A great resource for students of traditional Hawaiian dance, this beautiful handbook filled with archival photographs covers the origins, language, etiquette, ceremonies, and the spiritual culture of hula. Hula, the indigenous dance of Hawai'i, preserves significant aspects of Native Hawaiian culture with strong ties to health and spirituality. Kumu Hula, persons who are culturally recognized hula experts and educators, maintain and share this cultural tradition, conveying Hawaiian history and spiritual beliefs in this unique form of cultural and creative expression, comprising specific controlled rhythmic movements that enhance the meaning and poetry of the accompanying songs.Emphasizing the importance of cultural literacy, the Handbook begins with an overview of the origins of hula, its history in Hawai'i, and the primacy of the spiritual focus of the dance. The book goes on to introduce halau etiquette and practices, and explains the format of a traditional hula presentation, together with the genres of hula and the regalia worn by the dancers. Practical components include sections on Hawaiian language and chant and a glossary of hula commands and footwork.Author Mahealani Uchiyama trained in Hawaii in the hula lineage of Joseph Kamoha'i Kaha'ulelio and is currently the Kumu Hula at the Halau Ku Ua Tuahine in Berkeley, California. As the founder and artistic director of the Center for International Dance and board member of Dance Arts West, the producers of San Francisco's annual Ethnic Dance Festival, Uchiyama's approach to hula is deeply holistic and reflects her background in indigenous wisdom traditions and cultural exchange and interaction. Read more

A Chorus Line, the biggest Broadway hit of its generation, is based on a remarkable series of taped discussions made in the mid 1970s with some of the top “gypsies” (veteran Broadway dancers), many of whom went on to play characters based on themselves in the Tony- and Pulitzer-winning musical. In many ways, On the Line: The Creation of “A Chorus Line” is a continuation of the show itself. In this collective oral history, the 19 original cast members tell how they got involved with the project, how they labored through the months of workshops that shaped it, and what its success has meant for their lives and careers. They paint intimate and frank portraits of co-creators Michael Bennett, Joseph Papp, Ed Kleban – and each other. Originally published in 1990, the book has been updated to continue telling their stories until 2006. Wayne Cilento (“I Can Do That”) has become a Tony-winning choreographer of shows like Wicked and Aida; Kelly Bishop (“Can the adults smoke?”) has become a TV star; Trish Garland has become a California fitness guru, and so forth. Read more

This early work on dancing is a fascinating read for any dance enthusiast. Extensively illustrated with 72 diagrams and photographs to complement comprehensive step-by-step guides to a variety of dance steps. Contents Include: The Quickstep, The Waltz, The Foxtrot, The Tango, Popular Dances, Old Time Dances, Ballroom Novelty Dances and Games, and The Practical Side of Teaching. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork. Read more

You are never too old for Capoeira! Best Selling Author, Chris Roel, gives you the best tips to begin and stay training longer in Brazilian Capoeira. Included are free video trainings, modifications, style, diet, Yoga, and other tips to have you having a blast in the roda. Even if you're not 40 yet, this is a great read if you feel you're too out of shape for this amazing and beautiful art form. Click buy now! You won't regret. Read more

HowExpert Guide to Belly Dancing is for all dance lovers, especially for those in love with belly dancing. It serves as a guiding tool to learn the dance from the basic movements. This guide is divided into eight main sections that teach the different aspects of the belly dancing, starting with the basic belly dance posture and then going through the belly dance movements of the lower and upper part of the body. Each section contains several sub-sections that guide you gradually towards the next step. At the end of the book, there is a review part highlighting the key moments that you have to incorporate. Besides sharing instructions for engaging the upper and lower parts of the body, this guide also gives you insight into the basic techniques on how to move on stage and how to manage your choreography. All techniques gained from the sections will not mean a thing if you do not connect them into a graceful dance. The key point of this book is to motivate and inspire you to learn, grow, and succeed in your belly dancing journey. Although some steps are easier and can be learned faster, others require more time and practice. However, no matter what the obstacles are, challenge yourself to become better with every new step. About the Expert Aneta Dimoska is a passionate dancer and dedicated learner. Her love for dancing began in the early years of her life. Ever since then, she has nurtured this passion and developed skills in many dances. Her favorites are belly dancing and Latin dancing. She has an affection towards all belly dance styles. As a graduate of a sociology degree, she is in love with the Middle East culture and tradition. Her interest in this civilization expands through the years following the challenges that these societies are facing. Understanding this unique culture has made her connection with belly dancing even stronger. HowExpert publishes quick 'how to' guides on all topics from A to Z by everyday experts. Read more

A Feminist Force in Art History: Dance, Burlesque, Opera, Theater, and FilmDuring the first three decades of the twentieth century, Salome rose from a minor biblical character to a cultural icon famous for an erotic striptease that asserted women's agency and elevated art to new heights.With the help of author Oscar Wilde and opera composer Richard Strauss, the reimagined story of Salome managed to captivate a wide audience and empower adult women artistically, socially, and sexually.Presented here are over 130 historical photographs, the largest compilation of such images yet produced. Theda Bara, Sarah Bernhardt, Mata Hari, Ruth St. Denis, Anita Berber, Alla Nazimova, and Gloria Swanson are among those pictured.The pictures illustrate how women brought feminism to the performing arts by presenting Salome as a free and sensual female with the power to destroy the man she loves.This book also outlines the culture and cultural impact of artistic modernity and symbolism during the early years of the Twentieth Century. Read more

My First Book of Kathak Dance is part of an initiative to bring Kathak Classical dance to a wider audience. If you are curious about this art form or are a beginner student, this book contains ample information to pique your interest. The information presented in this book also supports the student who will appear for their 'Prarambhik' level exams.A noteworthy inclusion is the presentation of the first five hand gestures, as described in the Abhinaya Darpan text. Also for the first time ever, positions in Kathak and movements of Kathak have been included in a beginner's book.The book lays out the history of Kathak, and the nature of the dance form and includes a list of terminology used in Kathak teaching and Kathak repertoire. It also includes information on Teen Taal in Hindustani Music and features Kathak compositions each of Tihai and Todas. Read more

“It is our nature to want to understand something for ourselves and not just do it because we are told. Answering why or how something is done gives context and purpose to what we are doing. And understanding the physics and practicality of a step is essential…”Candace Egbert’s Be the Dance Teacher They Remember is a friendly and practical addition to the canon of dance education that is long overdue–a modern companion to guides like Classical Ballet Technique by Gretchen W. Warren. Itcloses the gap between dancing and dance instruction with actionable advice for new teachers, real-world stories, and creative methods for teaching dance technique to learners.Most books on ballet technique and dance pedagogy were published decades ago. Be the Dance Teacher They Remember offers an updated and holistic perspective that addresses the question of new and veteran dance teachers alike: does knowing how to dance mean that I know how to teach? Be the Dance Teacher They Remember is a book for the dance teacher who wants:to inspireto feel seen and validatedto be loved by their studentspractical advice and classroom tipsa source of relevant, updated information and best-practicesWhile technical manuals such as the Gail Grant Dictionary and other dance reference booksaddress the WHAT of classical dancing, this bookalso addresses the HOW and WHY. It contains practical knowledge on how to step into dance teaching with confidence from how to establish a good rapport to activities for visualization and engagement. Truly one of a kind, this book will help you connect the dots between mastering the art of ballet and being the teacher your students remember.Covering a range of topics from the physics of ballet to classroom management techniques, Be the Dance Teacher They Remember is the ideal guide for teachers just starting out, or those who want to rejuvenate their teaching.Reviews"I danced professionally for fifteen years and have taught dance for almost thirty years. It was a pleasure reading this excellent addition to the ballet/dance pedagogy catalog. The author has written a broad-reaching reflection on the value and artistry of dance instruction. She offers practical as well as philosophical guidance that can easily be transferred into the studio. This book would be a fine companion to any of the numerous instruction manuals that highlight dance curricular exercises. Novice teachers should gain confidence in stepping into the studio and experienced instructors will no doubt receive a boost of enthusiasm for their work."-Mark Borchelt, former full-time dance faculty at Utah Valley University“Be the Dance Teacher They Remember is a game-changer for ballet teachers. I’ve always felt like there was a giant hole between where dance training ended and a teaching career began. This book explains exactly how to take ballet technique and make it accessible and interesting for students. Truly, this book is for every dance teacher.”-Natalie Johnson, dancer and licensed educatorTable of contents: Chapter 1–Teach the Basics UnapologeticallyChapter 2–Foundational ConstantsChapter 3–AlignmentChapter 4–Reaching Through the ExtremitiesChapter 5–RotationChapter 6–Etiquette, Attitude, and DetailsChapter 7–SimplifyChapter 8–EngageChapter 9–Adapt and ChangeChapter 10–Continue Your EducationChapter 11–Love Your StudentsChapter 12–Your Purpose Read more

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“Marvelously silly photographs . . . in addition to those hilarious images, [there is] much helpful instruction for aspiring dancers with cats.” —The New York TimesDiscover the mystery and magic of cat dancing with this cult classic, filled with scores of delightful and inspiring photographs of people and cats engaging in their favorite dance routines, as well as moving testimonies of the personal transformations brought about through this uniquely joyous form of human-animal connection. Dancing with Cats will have a new generation of cat lovers (and their cats) jumping for joy—and cutting a rug—in no time. Read more

BodyStories is a book that engages the general reader as well as the serious student of anatomy. Thirty-one days of learning sessions heighten awareness about each bone and body system and provide self-guided studies. The book draws on Ms. Olsen's thirty years as a dancer and teacher of anatomy to show how our attitudes and approaches to our body affect us day to day. Amusing and insightful personal stories enliven the text and provide ways of working with the body for efficiency and for healing. BodyStories is used as a primary text in college dance departments, massage schools, and yoga training programs internationally. Read more

Written by a diverse group of authors from across the globe, Dance Cultures Around the World offers students a rich and in-depth look at 25 different cultures of dance. Through a dynamic collaboration with the chapter authors, editors Lynn E. Frederiksen and Shih-Ming Li Chang have carefully created a unique multimedia resource that includes vetted links to dance videos, images, and other materials. The text, suitable for high school and undergraduate general education and dance courses, addresses cross-cultural dynamics, colonialism, diaspora, politics, and more as critical factors in learning about cultures of dance around the world.As stated in the preface, “Every culture has some form of dance. However, why people dance—and further, how they define and create dance—are the difficult questions at the core of this text. Once you understand why dance exists and examine the factors that explain particular dance forms, you can engage more fully with many cultures of dance, including your own.”Written by cultural insiders, the chapters illuminate contexts and histories of dances often misinterpreted through the notion of dance as a universal language. “Just as you would not expect to understand a foreign language simply because it is human speech, you cannot expect to understand foreign dance without some ‘translation.’ The multiple layers of meaning and history in foreign dances are often left unrevealed, and therefore the opportunity for true cross-cultural understanding is missed.” To ensure rich cross-cultural engagement, the insiders “translate” their dance cultures, showing how influential forces affect both the qualities of the dance and its place in society.Dance Cultures Around the World offers a wealth of information: It explores dance cultures in nine geopolitical regions.It reveals patterns that operate in each region, adjusting for historical, political, and geographical differences.It enriches the reader’s experience of their own culture, as well as those of others, as they learn what dance is in various cultures, who dances, and why they dance.Each chapter begins with a vignette describing a signature dance or dance-related feature of the culture, followed by an introduction to its history and geography. Significant events, people, and qualities of the dance culture are highlighted throughout the chapters.Instructors and students have access to online resources through HKPropel. Instructor resources include a sample syllabus, chapter summaries, and suggested answers for chapter discussion questions; a presentation package with PowerPoint slides; a test package with over 700 multiple-choice, true-false, and fill-in-the-blank questions; and ready-made chapter quizzes. Student resources include links to videos, articles, and websites for further learning; key terms and definitions; references and resources; an application activity for each chapter; and chapter quizzes.Dance Cultures Around the World gives readers an overview of dance cultures and provides an insider’s perspective on how dance develops and evolves around the world. Together with the online resources in HKPropel, the book gives students and instructors a well-crafted gateway to dance cultures across the globe.Note: A code for accessing HKPropel is included with this ebook. Read more