The Art of Dance Composition: Writing the Body

The Art of Dance Composition: Writing the Body is an introduction to modern dance composition, providing clear and structured approaches to designing and defining movement that demystify the creative process.

The book introduces the concepts of creating authentic movement, processes for gathering and ordering compositional elements, and the ways in which theme, story, and design relate to bodies moving through space. It approaches the practice of composition from many avenues, including the use of digital tools such as video and video editing software, digital mapping, and motion capture, and through improvisation, sourced gestures, and inspiration from visual art, found objects, and chance methodology. Flowcharts that organize and provide a framework for making dance are included, equipping readers with a clear roadmap for creating their own work.

Filled with practical advice, this book is suitable for all aspiring choreographers.

The Art of Dance Composition: Writing the Body includes access to performance videos that demonstrate the concepts illustrated in the book. To access the videos, visit www.routledge.com/9780367424435.

Jenefer Davies is Chair of the Department of Theatre, Dance, and Film Studies and Professor of Dance at Washington and Lee University, and Artistic Director of the W&L Repertory Dance Company. She is the author of Aerial Dance: A Guide to Dance with Rope and Harness (Routledge 2018).