Discovering the world of folk and regional dance is like embarking on a cultural journey. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, a student, or someone curious about the cultural significance of dance, these books provide a wealth of knowledge. In this article, we’ve ranked the top 10 best books on folk and regional dance, featuring insights from various cultures. Each book is carefully selected based on its content quality, reader reviews, and contribution to the understanding of dance traditions. Dive in and find your next read to enrich your dance knowledge.
By: Samuel Thornton
10. Healing Journeys with the Black Madonna: Chants, Music, and Sacred Practices of the Great Goddess by Alessandra Belloni
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars
Alessandra Belloni explores the spiritual and healing aspects of dance and music in this captivating book. Healing Journeys with the Black Madonna delves into the sacred practices associated with the Black Madonna, offering readers a profound understanding of its cultural significance.
Buy Healing Journeys with the Black Madonna on Amazon
9. Dancing Many Drums: Excavations in African American Dance by Thomas F. DeFrantz
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars
Dancing Many Drums is a deep dive into the rich history of African American dance. Thomas F. DeFrantz combines historical research with critical analysis, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution and influence of African American dance.
Buy Dancing Many Drums on Amazon
8. Flamenco: Conflicting Histories of the Dance by Michelle Heffner Hayes
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.0 out of 5 stars
Michelle Heffner Hayes provides a detailed examination of the complex history of Flamenco. Flamenco: Conflicting Histories of the Dance explores the various influences and historical contexts that have shaped this passionate dance form.
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7. Traditional Barn Dances With Calls & Fiddling by Dudley Laufman
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 out of 5 stars
For those interested in traditional American dance, Traditional Barn Dances With Calls & Fiddling is a perfect guide. Dudley Laufman offers detailed instructions and historical context, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced dancers.
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6. Square and Folk Dancing: A Complete Guide for Students, Teachers, and Callers by Hank Greene
⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 out of 5 stars
Hank Greene’s Square and Folk Dancing is an excellent guide for anyone looking to master these traditional dance forms. It’s comprehensive, covering everything from basic steps to complex calls, ideal for students, teachers, and callers.
Buy Square and Folk Dancing on Amazon
5. Flamenco on the Global Stage: Historical, Critical and Theoretical Perspectives by K. Meira Goldberg
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars
Flamenco on the Global Stage provides a broad perspective on Flamenco, examining its global impact and theoretical frameworks. K. Meira Goldberg’s critical approach makes it a valuable addition to any dance scholar’s library.
Buy Flamenco on the Global Stage on Amazon
4. Flamenco Nation: The Construction of Spanish National Identity by Sandie Holguín
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars
Sandie Holguín’s Flamenco Nation delves into how Flamenco has shaped and been shaped by Spanish national identity. This book is essential for understanding the cultural and political dimensions of this iconic dance form.
3. The Haumana Hula Handbook for Students of Hawaiian Dance by Mahealani Uchiyama
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars
The Haumana Hula Handbook is a practical guide for anyone interested in learning Hula. Mahealani Uchiyama combines cultural history with detailed instructions, making it a must-have for students of Hawaiian dance.
Buy The Haumana Hula Handbook on Amazon
2. 2025-2026 Pocket Calendar: 2 Year Small Size Monthly Planner for Purse – From January 2025 To December 2026 | Floral Cover by Tonya Perrot
⭐ 1.0 out of 5 stars
This pocket calendar by Tonya Perrot, while not a traditional dance book, is a useful tool for dance enthusiasts to keep track of their practice and events. Its small size makes it convenient to carry around.
Buy 2025-2026 Pocket Calendar on Amazon
1. Around the World in Eighty Days (Illustrated): The Classic Edition with Original Illustrations by Jules Verne
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars
Jules Verne’s Around the World in Eighty Days may not focus on dance, but its adventurous spirit inspires exploration of global cultures, including their dance traditions. The illustrated edition adds a visual appeal to this classic.
Buy Around the World in Eighty Days on Amazon
Explore the World of Dance
These top 10 books offer a diverse exploration of folk and regional dance, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge. Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, or cultural enthusiast, these books are sure to enrich your understanding and appreciation of dance traditions. Don’t miss out on these captivating reads—click the links and add them to your collection today!
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Meta Description: Discover the top 10 best books on folk and regional dance. From Hawaiian Hula to Flamenco, these books offer rich cultural insights and practical guides. Perfect for dance enthusiasts, teachers, and students. Buy now and explore the world of dance!
Tags: folk dance, regional dance, dance books, dance traditions, cultural dance, Flamenco, Hula, dance history, dance guide, dance enthusiasts
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