This reference work serves as a comprehensive guide to the terminology, history, and practitioners of the global dance landscape. Authors Debra Craine and Judith Mackrell, both established dance critics and scholars, compile an extensive database of entries that bridge the gap between classical traditions and contemporary innovations. The text functions as a foundational resource for navigating the technical and historical nuances of 21st-century dance performance.

Experts and dance scholars frequently cite this volume as a reliable and authoritative reference tool for students and enthusiasts alike. Readers often note the clarity of the definitions and the breadth of the biographical entries, making it a standard addition to performing arts libraries.