Letters on Dance and Choreography

by August Bournonville, Knud Arne Jürgensen

In 1860 the great Danish choreographer and ballet-master, August Bournonville, wrote a series of eight public letters, which were published simultaneously in France and Turin. Bournonville's letters, featured in this volume, express his views on many aspects of ballet in his time.

88 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Joanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This collection of letters is excellently written by one of the most important men in the history of classical ballet. Although it was written over a century ago, Bournonville's words are full of wisdom and encouragement for the dance artist of the present day. His style is so clear and accurate that reading the book is like talking with a favorite teacher, and his subtle humor will keep the reader entertained.

[Nora Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bournonville’s ideas are a list of reforms for the ballet practiced in his times. The scope is specific while also covering a broad number of concerns. The footnotes are as long as the book itself.