As a religious, philosophical, and ritual expression, dance has an important role in the practice of Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, and other Asian belief systems. Long unbroken transmissions of movement forms are reflected in religious artistic depictions, where performative iconography is mystical code as well as movement illustration.
In his column Ancient Dances, Joseph Houseal looks at the aspects of dance and spirituality to enhance practice and appreciation among readers, and to raise cultural awareness in our changing world. He uses dance as a lens to explore states of consciousness and symbolic representations.
Ancient Dances is published monthly.
Joseph Houseal explores the adventurer-scholars, mystic-wanderers, and artist-seekers behind the West’s early exposures to Buddhism
Joseph Houseal explores the ancient cultural ties that connect Pashtun attan with Buddhist cham.
Joseph Houseal explores the spiritual dance legacy of Guru Rinpoche in an upcoming workshop with Karen Greenspan
Joseph Houseal mandalic expressions of the human body in art and dance
Joseph Houseal explores the living manifestations of Newar tantric dance preserved and practiced by Prajwal Vajracharya
Joseph Houseal delves into the spiritual and aesthetic depths of the human spirit, expressed through dance
Joseph Houseal continues his three-part exploration of the manifestations of sacred ritual dance in Bhutan
Joseph Houseal continues his three-part exploration of the manifestations of sacred ritual dance in Bhutan
Joseph Houseal and Chelley Sherman will embark on a “Journey Through the Dance of Form” in a forthcoming online workshop exploring form and consciousness
Joseph Houseal presents a three-part exploration of the manifestations of sacred ritual dance in Bhutan.
Joseph Houseal casts a critical eye on modern interpretations and improvements of ancient dance traditions
Joseph Houseal explores the Buddhism-inspired creative expressions of avant-garde dancer Virpi Pahkinen.
