Speaking Of Dance Twelve Contemporary Choreographers On Their Craft
Dance is a form of art that has been around for centuries. It is a way of expressing emotions, telling stories, and connecting with people on a deeper level. There are many different styles of dance, each with its own unique characteristics and movements. In the book, "Speaking of Dance: Twelve Contemporary Choreographers on Their Craft," twelve choreographers share their experiences and insights into the world of dance.
What is "Speaking of Dance?"
"Speaking of Dance" is a book that features interviews with twelve contemporary choreographers. The book was edited by Joyce Morgenroth and was published in 2004. The interviews in the book cover a wide range of topics, including the choreographers' creative processes, their inspirations, and the challenges they face in the dance industry.
The Choreographers
The twelve choreographers featured in "Speaking of Dance" are Merce Cunningham, Mark Morris, Bill T. Jones, Trisha Brown, Lucinda Childs, Stephen Petronio, Susan Marshall, David Gordon, Eiko & Koma, Ann Carlson, Paula Josa-Jones, and Ronald K. Brown. Each choreographer has their own unique style and approach to dance, and their interviews provide a fascinating glimpse into their creative processes.
The Creative Process
One of the main themes that emerges from the interviews in "Speaking of Dance" is the choreographers' creative processes. Each choreographer has their own unique approach to creating dances, and the interviews provide insight into how they come up with their ideas and turn them into fully-realized performances. Some choreographers, like Mark Morris, rely heavily on improvisation and collaboration with their dancers. Others, like Lucinda Childs, have a more structured approach to creating dances.
Inspirations
Another theme that emerges from the interviews in "Speaking of Dance" is the choreographers' inspirations. Many of the choreographers draw inspiration from a wide range of sources, including music, literature, visual art, and even everyday life. For example, Bill T. Jones draws inspiration from his own experiences as a black, gay man, while Merce Cunningham drew inspiration from the work of composer John Cage.
Challenges
Finally, the interviews in "Speaking of Dance" also touch on the challenges that choreographers face in the dance industry. Many of the choreographers discuss the struggle to find funding and support for their work, as well as the constant need to adapt to changing audiences and expectations. However, despite these challenges, the choreographers remain passionate about their craft and are committed to creating new and innovative works of dance.
Conclusion
"Speaking of Dance" is a fascinating book that provides insight into the world of contemporary dance. The interviews with twelve choreographers offer a glimpse into their creative processes, inspirations, and the challenges they face in the dance industry. Whether you are a dancer yourself or simply a fan of the art form, "Speaking of Dance" is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of dance.
