This encyclopedia serves as a comprehensive, global reference work designed to document and analyze the multifaceted history, practice, and cultural significance of dance across all human societies. The project, spearheaded by Selma Jeanne Cohen and George Dorris, synthesizes contributions from a vast network of scholars to provide a structured overview of dance as both an art form and a social phenomenon. By organizing entries into thematic and geographic sections, the work establishes a rigorous academic framework for understanding the evolution of movement traditions from ritualistic origins to contemporary popular entertainment.

Experts and researchers frequently cite this work as a foundational resource for the study of dance history and global performance practices. The text is noted for its extensive scope and the academic rigor applied to its diverse subject matter.