Ancient Chinese Dance Chronicle (32-page)

Author: Wang Kefen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1980-01-01
Features: In 1956, the Research Group for the History of Ancient Chinese Dance was established by the Chinese Dance Art Research Association, with Ouyang Yuqian serving as the artistic director. Under his guidance, research on dance history began. In the old era, there were no favorable conditions for dance history research. However, during the socialist period, in just over twenty years, despite the interference of the "Gang of Four" for about a decade, a book of this quality was still produced, which is indeed a pleasant achievement. The book covers a comprehensive range of textual materials and involves a rich array of visual resources. Moreover, based on practical experience in dance, it provides a relatively detailed understanding of these materials. The outlines of the development of dance history have been outlined; the living foundation of dance has been identified; children's dance and dance as a component of traditional opera have been distinguished; and the common contributions of various ethnic groups in China to dance art have been introduced preliminarily. These aspects are commendable. Of course, the study of dance history itself is in a continuous process of development. Certain achievements can be expected in specific periods, and it is neither appropriate to demand too much nor to stop there. Readers should not hold a book published in a particular period to perfection, and the author should not feel complacent about temporary achievements. It can be believed that this book will play a certain role in the Hundred Flowers Movement, will be well-received, and will also provoke criticism. As time progresses, the same field of research will continue to improve.