Skip to Main Content

Dance

Welcome to the Dance InfoGuide

Welcome to the Dance InfoGuide!
In this guide, you will find information and resources from the Daytona State College Library to help you with your Dance studies. 
If you need any assistance, please feel free to contact one of your Daytona State College librarians via online chat, phone, email, or in-person!

Introduction

Dance is a captivating and universal form of human expression that transcends cultural boundaries, languages, and time periods. It is the art of moving one's body in a deliberate and expressive manner, creating a visual and emotional language that communicates stories, ideas, and emotions. From the rhythmic footwork of traditional folk dances to the graceful movements of ballet and the freestyle creativity of contemporary dance, this art form has been an integral part of human culture for centuries.

At its core, dance is a powerful means of self-expression and communication. It enables individuals to convey emotions, convey narratives, and share their innermost thoughts and experiences without the need for words. Through the medium of dance, artists and performers can explore a rich spectrum of human emotions, from joy and love to sorrow and despair. It allows for a profound connection between performers and audiences, transcending spoken language to create a shared emotional experience.

Dance is not limited by age, background, or physical ability; it is a form of expression that can be enjoyed and practiced by people of all ages and walks of life. Whether you are a professional dancer, a casual enthusiast, or someone simply intrigued by the world of movement and expression, dance offers an outlet for creativity, physical fitness, and cultural exploration.

In our exploration of dance, we will journey through the diverse and vibrant world of dance styles, from the classical traditions of ballet and traditional folk dances to the contemporary and innovative forms that continue to evolve. We will delve into the history and cultural significance of dance, examining how it has been used for rituals, celebrations, storytelling, and as a form of protest and empowerment.

As we embark on this journey into the world of dance, we will gain a deeper appreciation for the power of movement and the profound ways in which dance enriches our lives. Whether you are a dancer or an observer, dance invites you to embrace the beauty of expression through movement and to experience the joy of connecting with the human spirit. Welcome to the enchanting realm of dance, where movement becomes art, and emotions find their voice.

Not sure what you want to do? Check out this list of potential careers!

  • Professional Dancer: Professional dancers perform on stage, in television and film, or with dance companies, using their skills in various dance styles, such as ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and more.
  • Choreographer: Choreographers create and design dance routines and performances, working with dancers to bring their artistic vision to life. They may work in various dance styles or specialize in one.
  • Dance Instructor or Teacher: Dance instructors teach individuals or groups to dance, offering lessons in various styles, including ballet, ballroom, tap, contemporary, and more. They can work in dance studios, schools, or community centers.
  • Dance Studio Owner: Dance studio owners establish and run their dance schools, providing instruction in multiple dance styles to students of all ages and skill levels.
  • Dance Company Artistic Director: Artistic directors oversee dance companies, making creative decisions regarding performances, repertoire, and artistic direction.
  • Dance Movement Therapist: Dance movement therapists use dance and movement to help individuals address physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. They often work in clinical or therapeutic settings.
  • Dance Notation Specialist: Dance notation specialists use systems like Labanotation to record dance movements and choreography, preserving and documenting dance pieces for future reference.
  • Dance Critic or Writer: Dance critics and writers review dance performances, write about the art form, and provide insights and analysis in publications or online platforms.
  • Dance Researcher or Historian: Dance researchers and historians study the history and cultural aspects of dance, documenting its evolution and significance.
  • Dance Costume Designer: Dance costume designers create costumes for dance performances, considering style, movement, and functionality while working with choreographers and dancers.
  • Dance Photographer or Videographer: Dance photographers and videographers capture dance performances, rehearsals, and behind-the-scenes moments for promotional materials, documentation, and artistic purposes.
  • Dance Company Manager: Company managers handle the administrative aspects of dance companies, including budgeting, scheduling, and logistics to ensure smooth operations.
  • Dance Production Manager: Production managers oversee technical aspects of dance productions, including lighting, sound, sets, and stage management.
  • Dance Agent or Talent Manager: Dance agents and talent managers represent and promote dancers and choreographers, helping them secure performance opportunities and negotiate contracts.
  • Dance Ethnologist: Dance ethnologists study the cultural and social aspects of dance, exploring its significance within different communities and societies.
  • Dance Outreach and Education Coordinator: Outreach and education coordinators work with dance organizations to develop and implement community programs, workshops, and educational initiatives to engage and educate diverse audiences.