Date of Defense
3-29-2018
Date of Graduation
4-2018
Department
Dance
First Advisor
Jeremy Blair
Second Advisor
Nina Nelson
Abstract
This historical, introspective telling of the Western Michigan University’s Department of Dance examines its development in relation to dance in higher education and dance across the United States. An analysis of the development of dance at Western Michigan University in comparison to other universities and the dance field was conducted by studying professional influences in the field and evolving social, educational, and industry trends. Research from texts written by respected dance scholars was collected, and trade journals were consulted for information regarding current trends in the dance field. Archival research at the Western Michigan University Zhang Legacy Collections Center: Archives and Regional History was completed to develop a historical framework of the department’s development. Interviews from Department of Dance faculty, both past and present, were conducted for first-hand evidence. This historical discourse serves to honor the past and establish a sense of permanence in the innately ephemeral and evolutionary art of dance.
Recommended Citation
Russell, Amy, "A Written History of the Western Michigan University Department of Dance" (2018). Honors Theses. 2978.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/2978
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Open Access
Thesis Cover
A Written History of the Western Michigan University Presentation.pdf (576 kB)
Defense Presentation
Included in
Cultural History Commons, Dance Commons, Other History Commons, Other Theatre and Performance Studies Commons