"May I Have the Pleasure of this Dance?"
Public speakers and dance performers Nancy Walker and Jef Savage explore the world of social dances and its importance to the cultural and social framework of our country. Using demonstration and historical readings on topics like the scandalous nature of the waltz and ballroom etiquette for gentlemen, they lead us through social dances spanning the presidencies of James Buchanan to Teddy Roosevelt. Nancy Walker is an artist with over 20 years of experience as a performer, speaker, instructor, choreographer and producer of dance programs for all ages. Currently, she is an Adjunct Professor of Dance at Wilson College and an Adjunct Professor of Dance History at Gettysburg College. Jef Savage is a performer, presenter and assistant instructor.
Watch the full episode on YouTube: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4
Watch an interview with Walker and Savage:
This episode was taped at the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple, which is an 180,000 square foot cathedral featuring two theatres and a grand ballroom.
Watch an interview with the Cultural Center's Stefanie Bush:
Additional Resources:
Nancy Walker and Jef Savage's website
Social Dances of the 19th Century
Social Dances of the Ragtime Era
Video clips illustrating portions of dance manuals
Western Social Dance: An Overview of the Library of Congess Collection