
Anti-War Performance, Part One
Joseph Houseal explores anti-war activism and ritual suicide as a performative expression of nonviolence and compassion
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 anti-war activism and ritual suicide as a performative expression of nonviolence and compassion

A self-reflective exploration of love and loss, grief and impermanence in Japanese Noh theater

Joseph Houseal offers a contemporary exploration of Tibet’s ancient Gorshey folk dance

BDG columnist Joseph Houseal explores the historical legacies and heritage of ritual dance traditions from the world of Buddhism and beyond

Joseph Houseal explores the importance of stillness in the context of ritual and ceremonial dance

Joseph Houseal examines some fundamental characteristics of Buddhist tantric dance

Joseph Houseal explores the legacy of the renowned Russian explorer and cultural preservationist

Joseph Houseal concludes his series on Faeries, dakinis, nuns, and mikos with writing from elemental faery magician, Althea Northage-Orr.

Joseph Houseal explores the mysteries of esoteric ritual dance in Japan, and profiles practitioner Elizabeth Tinsley

Joseph Houseal explores the world of Buddhist ritual dance and profiles two Western exponents and practitioners, and their unique perspectives

Cultural echoes of the sacred feminine in East and West

BDG columnist and dance researcher Joseph Houseal examines the role of setting in traditional tantric cham dance