Dancing for Survival explores the profound role of dance, not just as art, but as a vital tool for human resilience across history. From war zones to times of economic crises, dance emerges as a potent coping mechanism, a means of economic support, and a form of political protest. The book reveals how this performing art has served as a strategy for confronting and overcoming life-threatening challenges. One intriguing fact is dance's historical use in appeasing warring gods, while another is its contemporary application in challenging social injustice, highlighting its enduring adaptability.
The book progresses by first introducing dance as a survival tool across psychological, economic, and political dimensions. It then uses specific case studies to show its impact in war-torn regions, deprived areas, and as a vehicle for social change. This approach emphasizes that dance is an essential human practice, contributing to both physical and psychological well-being, and urges a reassessment of its value, especially during times of turmoil, offering insights into fostering resilience and promoting social justice in contemporary society.
