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Unearthing the Hidden Legacy: Excavations in African American Dance Studies

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Excavations In African American Dance Studies Book Cover Dancing Many Drums: Excavations In African American Dance (Studies In Dance History)

Delving into the Roots and Evolution of a Lost Art Form

In the vast landscape of dance history, one chapter has been largely obscured by the passage of time: the vibrant and influential world of African American dance. For centuries, the intricate movements and captivating rhythms of this tradition have been passed down through generations, often existing only in the memories of those who witnessed them. "Excavations in African American Dance Studies" is a groundbreaking work that unearths the hidden legacy of this art form, shedding light on its rich history and profound impact on dance.

Dancing Many Drums: Excavations in African American Dance (Studies in Dance History)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	384 pages

A Labor of Love: Unearthing a Lost Art Form

"Excavations in African American Dance Studies" is the culmination of decades of tireless research and dedication by Dr. Jacqui Malone, a renowned dance historian and scholar. With a passion for preserving the forgotten stories of African American dance, Dr. Malone embarked on a journey to uncover the lost fragments of this captivating art form.

Through meticulous archival research, interviews with elders, and painstaking analysis of historical accounts, Dr. Malone has meticulously reconstructed the evolution of African American dance from its African roots to its transformative influence on contemporary dance. The result is an invaluable resource that fills a gaping void in dance scholarship and celebrates the enduring legacy of a vibrant and resilient culture.

Exploring the African Roots: Embodied Rhythms and Expressive Forms

"Excavations in African American Dance Studies" begins by tracing the deep-rooted origins of African American dance to the African continent. Dr. Malone delves into the ancestral dance practices that shaped the distinctive movements and rhythms that would later define the African American dance aesthetic.

From the polyrhythmic footwork of West Africa to the expressive gestures of Central Africa, the book uncovers the rich tapestry of African dance traditions that laid the foundation for the unique developments in the Americas. By connecting the dots between African and African American dance, "Excavations" provides a deeper understanding of the cultural continuity and the enduring spirit of African American dance.

From Enslavement to Freedom: Dance as Resistance and Expression

The history of African American dance is inextricably linked to the experiences of slavery and the struggle for freedom. During the horrific years of bondage, dance served as both a form of resistance and a balm for the wounds inflicted by oppression.

"Excavations" meticulously documents the covert dances performed by enslaved Africans, often under the cover of darkness, as they expressed their longing for liberation. It also explores the vibrant dance traditions that emerged in free Black communities after the abolition of slavery, showcasing the power of dance as a tool for self-expression and community building.

The Rise of Minstrelsy and the Commodification of Black Culture

With the rise of minstrelsy in the 19th century, African American dance became a highly visible commodity. White performers appropriated and exaggerated the movements and styles of Black dancers, creating a distorted and racist caricature that would leave a lasting impact on American culture.

"Excavations" deconstructs the complexities of minstrelsy, examining its role in shaping white perceptions of Blackness and the challenges it posed to the authentic expression of African American dance. Through a critical analysis of historical sources, the book exposes the insidious ways in which Black culture was exploited and distorted for entertainment purposes.

The Birth of Modern Dance: African American Influences and Creative Explosion

The early 20th century witnessed a creative explosion in American dance, with the emergence of modern dance as a new and innovative art form. African American dancers and choreographers played a transformative role in this movement, bringing their unique sensibilities and artistic vision to the stage.

"Excavations" explores the groundbreaking contributions of African American modern dancers such as Katherine Dunham, Pearl Primus, and Talley Beatty. It analyzes their pioneering works, which fused African and Caribbean influences with modern dance techniques, creating a new hybrid form that defied traditional boundaries.

African American Dance Today: Diversity, Impact, and Global Influence

The legacy of African American dance continues to thrive and evolve in the present day. From hip-hop to contemporary dance, the influence of African American dancers and choreographers is felt across the globe.

"Excavations" concludes by examining the diverse manifestations of African American dance in the 21st century. It highlights the work of contemporary artists who are pushing the boundaries of the art form, using dance to explore social issues, celebrate Black culture, and inspire new generations.

: Reclaiming the Lost Legacy and Inspiring the Future

"Excavations in African American Dance Studies" is a groundbreaking work that reclaims the lost legacy of African American dance and shines a light on its profound contributions to the global dance landscape. By meticulously reconstructing the history of this art form, from its African roots to its contemporary manifestations, Dr. Jacqui Malone has made an invaluable contribution to dance scholarship and preserved the cultural heritage of a vibrant and resilient people.

This book is not merely a historical record but an inspiration for future generations. It serves as a reminder of the power of art to transcend adversity, inspire creativity, and shape cultural identity. "Excavations in African American Dance Studies" is a must-read for anyone interested in dance history, African American culture, or the enduring power of the human spirit.

Dancing Many Drums: Excavations in African American Dance (Studies in Dance History)

4.6 out of 5