The Dance Collection at the New York Public Library

Definition

The Dance Collection at the New York Public Library is one of the largest and most comprehensive repositories of dance-related materials in the world, dedicated to preserving the history and documentation of dance. This collection includes a vast array of resources such as manuscripts, photographs, videos, and personal papers from significant dancers, choreographers, and dance companies, making it a vital tool for researchers, historians, and enthusiasts interested in the evolution of dance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Dance Collection was established in 1935 and has grown significantly over the decades, reflecting the changing landscape of dance.
2. The collection holds materials from iconic figures in dance history, including Martha Graham, George Balanchine, and Alvin Ailey.
3. In addition to performance materials, the collection also includes documentation of dance pedagogy, criticism, and theory.
4. The Dance Collection offers access to various digital resources, allowing broader public engagement with its vast archives.
5. Researchers can utilize the collection for scholarly work, artistic creation, and to better understand the cultural significance of dance throughout history.

Review Questions

• How does the Dance Collection at the New York Public Library contribute to our understanding of dance history?
  • The Dance Collection at the New York Public Library plays a crucial role in deepening our understanding of dance history by providing access to a wealth of primary source materials. It documents the lives and works of influential dancers and choreographers, capturing their contributions to the art form. This extensive archive allows researchers to analyze the evolution of dance styles, trends, and cultural impacts over time.
• Evaluate the significance of having a centralized repository like the Dance Collection for the preservation of dance materials.
  • A centralized repository like the Dance Collection is significant because it provides a dedicated space for the preservation and study of dance materials that might otherwise be scattered or lost. It ensures that important artifacts, manuscripts, and recordings are maintained in optimal conditions for future research. This not only protects cultural heritage but also fosters scholarly collaboration and public interest in dance as an art form.
• Synthesize how the resources available at the Dance Collection can impact contemporary dance practices and scholarship.
  • The resources at the Dance Collection have a profound impact on contemporary dance practices and scholarship by providing artists and scholars with historical context and inspiration. Access to personal papers and performance archives allows current practitioners to draw connections between past and present movements. Furthermore, by studying earlier techniques and philosophies documented within the collection, contemporary dancers can innovate while respecting traditional forms, fostering a richer dialogue between past influences and modern interpretations.

Related terms

Archival Preservation: The practice of maintaining and protecting archival materials to ensure their longevity and accessibility for future generations.

Documentation: The systematic recording and organization of information, artifacts, and performances related to a specific subject, in this case, dance.

Oral History: A method of gathering and preserving historical information through recorded interviews with individuals who have firsthand knowledge of past events.