Appalachian Dance: A Tapestry of Creativity and Continuity in Six Communities

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and lush forests of Appalachia, dance has flourished as a vibrant and integral part of the region's culture. From the lively square dances of the highlands to the intricate clogging steps of the foothills, Appalachian dance embodies a rich tapestry of creativity and continuity that has been passed down through generations.

In her groundbreaking book, "Appalachian Dance: Creativity and Continuity in Six Communities," folklorist and dance scholar Dena J. Epstein offers an in-depth exploration of the diverse dance traditions that thrive in this unique region. Through extensive fieldwork and interviews with local dancers and musicians, Epstein paints a vivid portrait of the people, places, and events that keep these traditions alive.

Appalachian Dance: Creativity and Continuity in Six Communities

by Alicja Urbanowicz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3185 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages

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A Journey Through Six Appalachian Communities

Epstein's book takes readers on a journey through six distinct Appalachian communities, each with its own unique dance style:

1. Celo, North Carolina: Known for its spirited square dances, the Celo community has preserved a rich tradition that dates back to the early 1900s.
2. Bluff, Virginia: Home to the lively "Bluff Style" of square dancing, Bluff's dance culture is characterized by its intricate footwork and playful call-and-response patterns.
3. Whitetop, Virginia: The Whitetop community is renowned for its vibrant clogging steps, a percussive dance form that combines a syncopated rhythm with complex footwork.
4. Cashiers, North Carolina: A hub for traditional mountain music, Cashiers is home to the weekly "Music on Main" series that showcases a wide variety of Appalachian dance forms.
5. Elkton, Virginia: Elkton is known for its annual "Square Dance Festival," a celebration that attracts hundreds of dancers from across the region.
6. Wolf Creek, Kentucky: A secluded community in the heart of the Cumberland Mountains, Wolf Creek is home to a thriving tradition of old-time clogging.

Diversity and Commonalities in Appalachian Dance

While each community featured in "Appalachian Dance" possesses its own distinct dance style, Epstein also highlights the commonalities that unite Appalachian dance traditions. These include:

• Community Bonding: Dance serves as a social glue that brings people together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity.
• Performance and Preservation: Appalachian dancers are both performers and preservers of their cultural heritage, ensuring that traditional dance styles continue to thrive.
• Musicality and Rhythm: Appalachian dance is deeply intertwined with music, with dancers responding to the rhythms and melodies played by local musicians.
• Improvisation and Creativity: Within the framework of established dance steps, Appalachian dancers demonstrate a remarkable degree of improvisation and creativity, adding their own personal flair to traditional forms.

Challenges and Resilience in Appalachian Dance Culture

Epstein also explores the challenges facing Appalachian dance traditions in the face of modernization and globalization. Changing lifestyles, the decline of rural communities, and the influence of popular culture all pose threats to the preservation of these unique dance forms.

Despite these challenges, Epstein finds that Appalachian dance culture remains remarkably resilient. Communities across the region are actively working to preserve and promote their dance traditions through festivals, workshops, and dance schools.

"Appalachian Dance: Creativity and Continuity in Six Communities" is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the diverse and enduring dance traditions of the Appalachian region. Dena J. Epstein's meticulous research and insightful analysis provide readers with a deep understanding of the history, performance, and preservation of these vibrant cultural expressions. Whether you're a dancer, a folklorist, or simply someone interested in the rich cultural tapestry of Appalachia, this book is an invaluable resource.

Additional Information

• Alt attribute for main image: Two Appalachian dancers in traditional attire performing a square dance.
• Author: Dena J. Epstein
• Publisher: University Press of Mississippi
• Publication Date: November 2022

Appalachian Dance: Creativity and Continuity in Six Communities

by Alicja Urbanowicz

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3185 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages

FREE