Since the dawn of human history, dance has been a vital form of expression in virtually every culture. From the minuet to the tango to kabuki theater to square dancing, it is a part of the social fabric of all societies, as well as an important art form. Now, Oxford presents the first reference to document all types of dance around the world and throughout history. In six volumes, with nearly 2,000 articles written by scholars from over fifty countries, the Encyclopedia offers authoritative coverage of the full spectrum of dance, including theatrical, ritual dance-drama, folk, traditional, ethnic, and social dance. Extensive historical and cultural overviews of many nations appear along with articles on specific dance forms, music and costumes, performances, biographies of dancers and choreographers, and much more. The set is alphabetically arranged, with an exhaustive index, full cross-references, and more than 2,300 illustrations. Amazing in its scope and dazzling in its diversity, the Encyclopedia is like no other reference work on dance. Accessibly written and arranged for use by a wide audience, it is an essential addition to any arts and humanities collection. "The springy athleticism captured here is a trademark of House's highly musical choreography. Indeed, they often impart meaty information pertinent to the article in question. One of the chief pleasures of reading the IED"S biographical articles is that it's authors write of their subjects with liveliness, sympathy and even affection. Among the most compelling of these essays on topics related to dance are those which explain how to put it on the stage, and they bring a sense of immediacy that underscores the flesh-and-blood aliveness of the art." Journal of American Musicological Society