This issue of the Dance Observer from October 1957 aims to capture the contemporary landscape of dance through critical reviews, commentary, and reporting. Edited by Gervaise Butler and Lois Balcom, with contributions from notable figures like Joseph Campbell and Louis Horst, the publication serves as a historical record of dance discourse. It presents a snapshot of the artistic and critical conversations surrounding dance in the mid-20th century.

This periodical issue is a primary source document for understanding dance history and criticism in the late 1950s. Its value lies in the contemporary perspectives offered by its editors and contributors, providing direct insight into the artistic and intellectual currents of the time. The inclusion of figures like Joseph Campbell and Louis Horst suggests a serious engagement with the art form, positioning it as a significant resource for scholars and enthusiasts of dance history.