Bücher von Betty Casey

Internationally known dance instructor and writer Betty Casey takes an informal look at the history of Texas dancing and tells how to do more than twenty traditional Texas dances.

"Square dancing is friendship set to music," says author Betty Casey. Just take four couples, old or young, put 'em on a good floor, turn on the music, and you're all set. Whether you've done it before or you're just starting out, this book tells you everything you need to know--85 basic movements used all over the world, the spirited calls unique to square dancing, the costumes and equipment that are best, and music (from "Red River Valley" to "Mack the Knife") that will set your feet in motion. Down-to-earth details and anecdotes give a taste of the good times in store for you. Find out how native folk dances grew out of European quadrilles, jigs, and fandangos. Open this book and get ready to: "wipe off your tie, pull down your vest, and dance with the one you love best." This book includes: 50 basic movements, 35 advanced movements, variations, dances that are a part of the American heritage, Contra and Round Dances, polkas and reels, and calls, past and present.

This is an extensive work on international folk dancing as practiced in the United States. It is a must for folk dance enthusiasts--novice to expert. Never before has such a wide variety of entries on this popular, multi-faceted social phenomenon been brought together. It tells how to do the hopak, czardas and the bamboo pole dance; plan an international folk dance program; do the little finger hold and the hambo swing. International Folk Dancing U.S.A. presents historical vignettes on pioneer folk dance leaders; instructions for 180 dances from 30 countries; contributions from 60 folk dance authorities; easy-to-follow dance step descriptions; a Glossary of folk dance terms; many helpful illustrations. "A tremendous achievement," writes Miriam Gray in her Foreword, "a resource book par excellence, an encyclopedic treasure trove of folk dance information from the people and the countries who have done the most to influence the growth of international folk dancing in the United States. More than sixty authors, teachers, leaders, and folk dancers have contributed their thoughts, their knowledge, and their unique historical perspective. Leaders--whether you are associated with local folk dance clubs, large urban community center, or recreation departments--this book is for you! Authors, dance students, international folk dancers, researchers, teachers (amateur and professional)--in fact, anyone who likes to dance or to read about dance--this book is for you, too! Every library, personal and public, should own a copy. You may never need to buy another folk dance book."