Jason Raish Books

Welcome to the Arts: Dance is a beautifully presented large format, dip-in, dip-out non-fiction book about the world of dance.

The book takes the reader on a guided tour of dance; from choreography, set design and costumes to different ‘stages’ of dance, including theatre, folk, social and movie dances.

Each section gives a well-researched description of the element of dance, describing its history or technical elements – such as the five positions in ballet. Each page includes beautiful ‘Now Showing’ images, often taken from famous photographs of dancers performing such as Darcey Bussell in The Nutcracker or The Nicholas Brothers (famous tap dancers) in Sun Valley Serenade.

While the most well-known dance styles are covered – ballet, ballroom and Latin, it is the lesser-known dances that most capture the imagination. Morris dancing, Khon (a traditional Thai dance), Adumu (the Maasai jumping dance) all feature, as well as a range of modern, popular dances such as disco and hip-hop.

The reader can learn about famous dancers around the world from the past and present, from Rudolf Nureyev (ballet) to Martha Graham (contemporary), from Antonio Gades (flamenco) to Fred Astaire (popular dance), learning how they became famous, what they were known for and their impact on the world of dance.

The book is a loving tribute to the world of dance, curated by Sir Alistair Spalding and Jason Rush through the Sadler’s Wells Theatre. It would be a welcome addition to any KS2 library and I think there is many a dance-loving child who would pour over the pages time and time again.