I was There

"I Was There: Selected Dance Reviews and Articles—1936-1976" by Walter Terry is a non-fiction book that chronicles the evolution of dance in the United States during the mid-20th century. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Historical Context of Dance: The book provides a historical perspective on the development of dance in the United States, focusing on the period from 1936 to 1976.
2. Dance Reviews and Articles: It includes a collection of selected dance reviews and articles written by Walter Terry during his career as a dance critic.
3. Influence of Choreographers: The book highlights the contributions of prominent choreographers such as Martha Graham, George Balanchine, and Ted Shawn, among others.
4. Cultural and Social Impact: It explores how dance reflected and influenced the cultural and social landscape of the time, including the impact of World War II on the dance community.

Plot Summary

The book is structured as a series of reviews and articles that Terry wrote for various publications, including the New York Herald Tribune and the Saturday Review. Each entry provides a detailed account of significant dance performances, festivals, and events during the specified period. The narrative spans multiple decades, covering the early days of modern dance, the rise of ballet in the United States, and the evolution of various dance companies and choreographers.

Some notable events and performances covered in the book include:

• Bennington Summer School of Dance: The book begins with the third session of the Bennington Summer School of Dance in 1936, which saw the premiere of Ballet Caravan.
• Jooss Ballet: The Jooss Ballet's premiere at Jordan Hall in Boston in 1937 is another significant event documented.
• Ballet Theatre: The founding of Ballet Theatre by George Balanchine and the company's early seasons are highlighted.
• Martha Graham: Terry's reviews of Martha Graham's performances, including her iconic works like "Cave of the Heart," "Errand into the Maze," and "Night Journey," are featured prominently.
• Katherine Dunham: The book also includes reviews of Katherine Dunham's performances, such as her presentation of "Bal Nègre."

Critical Reception

While there is limited specific critical reception available for the book, it is evident from the sources that Walter Terry was a respected dance critic and historian. His work is recognized for its depth and insight into the world of dance during a pivotal period in American cultural history.

• Publication Details: The book was published in 1978 by Audience Arts, and it is considered a first edition.
• Archival Significance: The Walter Terry papers at the New York Public Library demonstrate his extensive research and contributions to the field of dance history, which likely influenced the content of "I Was There".

Overall, "I Was There" provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the evolution of dance in the United States, making it a valuable resource for historians, dance enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural and artistic developments of the mid-20th century.