Banned Dances explores the historical suppression of dance, revealing the motivations behind censoring artistic expression across different cultures and eras.
It examines how dance, a potent form of nonverbal communication, has been perceived as a threat to social order and political power. The book argues that anxieties surrounding morality, female sexuality, and cultural boundaries often fuel dance censorship. One intriguing example explored is the initial condemnation of the Waltz in the 19th century due to its close embrace being viewed as scandalous.
The book progresses by identifying recurring themes in the history of dance censorship. Drawing upon primary sources like newspaper accounts and artistic manifestos, Banned Dances analyzes the debates surrounding controversial dances, revealing the prejudices of the time. The study also considers how dancers and choreographers have creatively subverted restrictions. It offers a fresh perspective by connecting dance censorship to broader issues of freedom of expression, cultural identity, and social justice, making it valuable for those interested in history, performing arts, and cultural studies.
