The Wicked Waltz and Other Scandalous Dances: Outrage at Couple Dancing in the 19th and Early 20th Centuries

Library Journal

Antidance sentiment has existed side by side with social dance, but despite critics' complaints, as Knowles writes, "the dance goes on." In his meticulously researched study, choreographer Knowles (movement, American Acad. of Dramatic Arts; Tap Roots: The Early History of Tap Dancing) takes a close look at the waltz, animal dances, the tango, and the Charleston and describes their origins, development, and dispersion. These couples' dances became fads that influenced fashion, music, and leisure time. Embraced by many and strongly condemned by others, they were portents of cultural shifts in legislation, the economy, and social reform. The scandal created by the dances and the moral objections they engendered are mirrored in dance crazes of successive generations. Could krumping be this generation's waltz? VERDICT Knowles convincingly demonstrates that popular social dance is "a manifestation of society's beliefs, values, attitudes, confusions, and concerns"—it reflects and, more important, helps to shape society. This scholarly yet entertaining read is recommended for dance, history, and popular culture enthusiasts.—Joan Stahl, librarian, George Washington's Mount Vernon, VA