Saltos, dances, jumps, and ballets, or dancing in old Jesuit schools

Abstract

The review discusses the book by Anna Reglińska-Jemioł, devoted to issues of dance in the old Jesuit theatres. It outlines the composition of the work and issues addressed in individual chapters of the book. The review highlighted Reglińska-Jemioł’s multi-faceted treatment of the titular subject: combining the issue of dance and music culture with theoretical statements and stage practice (both Polish and foreign – mainly Italian and French). Attention was drawn to the multiplicity of examples illustrating the changes in views on dance and the valuable attempt to classify dance segments based on the information contained in summaries. Also pointed out were several shortcomings of the book. The reviewer appreciated the attempt to organize the source material in an extensive appendix. The book by Anna Reglińska-Jemioł is an innovative look that fills the gap and provides new knowledge about the old school theater.