Engaging Bodies

"An essential offering from the eminent contemporary theorist of corporeality and feminist studies. Ann Cooper Albright's practice-infused, phenomenologically derived writings explore the largest issues in dance studies today—critical race, disability, gender, philosophy, historiography, activism, and body image. Surprising and compelling at every turn, this outstanding collection confirms the capacities of bodies in motion to matter."—Thomas F. DeFrantz, author of Dancing Revelations

"Engaging Bodies gives us not only insights into major facets of dance scholarship but also into the life of the mind of an important scholar in the field. Albright's journey from college student with no dance experience to distinguished professor is nearly as compelling as the dancers, movements, and theories she analyzes."—Nadine George-Graves, professor of theater and dance, University of California–San Diego

"Throughout the reader encounters Albright's continuing interest in the intersections of critical and feminist theory and the practical, kinesthetic experiences of the dancing body. The 41 essays (including an afterword) are divided into six sections: 'Performance Writings,' 'Feminist Theories,' 'Dancing Histories,' 'Contact Improvisation,' 'Pedagogy,' and 'Occasional Pieces.' Brief, accessible pieces and pieces that require deep theoretical grounding are intermingled. Well balanced over all, the book will be useful for young scholar artists and their mentors. Recommended (for) upper-division undergraduates through faculty/professionals."—S.E. Friedler, Choice

"Albright explores the intersection of cultural representation with somatic identity in the dance field, touching on some important issues in dance studies along the way: gender, race, disability, and more are examined through the lens of cultural theory, feminist theory, and personal experience."—Michele Trumble, Dance Chronicle