<MBI>Dance a While is the basic text for recreational dance. This is the eighth edition of the best-selling introduction to dance text, one whose unique combination of dance instruction, descriptions of major forms of dance, and directions for over 260 individual dances provides future dance instructors with the background needed to be successful teachers. The cultural background of dance for each country is presented along with specific suggestions for developing style. It reflects the most recent trends in dance, and includes a wealth of suggestions for dance resource materials. The methods teacher has an all-inclusive textbook for students, the teacher in training has a reference book that will last a lifetime.

As in the previous editions, this edition encompasses both contemporary and traditional folk, square, and contra dancing from countries the world over, along with American folk dances, both square and contra, and social dances. It discusses the history of dance throughout the world, current trends in dance, and teaching hints for each style of dance. Detailed illustrations and diagrams clarify technique and directions throughout, making learning each dance as easy as “1-2-3.”