Made in 1980, this film explores the contemporary dance scene through the work of seven New York-based choreographers. They discuss the nature of dance and the evolution of their own work. Filmed at rehearsals, performances, and during interviews, the film is a unique primary source. The artistic roots of these seven artists can be found in Martha Graham's concern with modern life as a subject for dance and in Merce Cunningham's emphasis on the nature...

Since the early eighties, Molissa Fenley has been intriguing audiences and impressing critics with her unique approach to modern dance. Her work is constantly changing, re-defining itself with each new piece, and she is well known for her work with contemporary artists and composers including Phillip Glass. In this tape, Ms. Fenley talks about her choreography and her approach to the creative process. Also included are clips of a number of important...

This is a compilation of some of Maya Deren's most important films: The very eye of night, (1955) Ritual in transfigured time, (1946) Meditation on violence (1948) Study for choreography and camera (1945). These films address dance as "... the stylization of movement which confers ritual dimension upon functional motion ..." She has been described as an inheritor of the surrealists, however, Maya Deren was one of the earliest pioneers in the adaptation...

Talley Beatty has had an illustrious career spanning six decades. He began studying with Katherine Dunham at the age of 11 and at 16 became a principal dancer in her company. His choreography has been performed by numerous companies including the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Mr. Beatty was the recipient of the 1993 Scripps/ADF award. Also included is "A Study in Choreography For Camera" (1945), the seminal film by Maya Deren featuring Mr. Beatty....

This film, directed by Kamal Musale and shot in locations around Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, and France is a documentary of the work of choreographer Carlotta Ikeda and her collaboration with dancer Ko Murobushi and the Ariadone Company. With strong images and a bold soundtrack, this film takes the viewer through the chaotic world of Butoh Dance. "Ai-Amour" has been awarded the Silver Fipa Award from the 8th International Festival for Audio-Visual...

Choreographers Kumiko Kimoto, Sun Ock Lee, Mel Wong and moderator Peggy Choy discuss how Asian and Asian-American issues and identity shape their work. The panel discussion is intercut with excerpts of work performed by each choreographer. The participants each offer a unique perspective on the challenges facing Asian/ Asian-American choreographers in addressing stereotypes and cultural expectations.