
Rarified, Recondite, and Abstruse: Zeami’s Nine Stages
The hidden wisdom of Japanese Noh
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.

The hidden wisdom of Japanese Noh

Tracing Intangible world heritage and ancient dance…

Tantric dance and treasures of the Vajrayana

Capturing the Zen of unspoken heartbreak

Cross-cultural encounters with ritual dance

Reflecting and expressing authenticity

The sacred dance without and within

Mystic expressions of tantric meditation

Vessels of an ancient lineage

Transmission of the Accomplishment of Mani…

Beauty and antiquity, order and dignity . . .
