Dance Context is proud to announce the publishing of the inaugural issue of the Journal, which focuses on dance in public space. Under the editorship of Petra Dotlačilová and Zuzana Rafajová, a publication has been created which opens up a discussion about our conception of "public space" and the role of dance within it.

"We are truly delighted that the first issue of Dance Context Journal has managed to bring together such a diverse range of topics, perspectives, and authors, balancing theoretical and artistic approaches, stimulating a truly international dialogue," said editor Petra Dotlačilová.

The Journal opens with a text by Natalia Kozakiewicz on performative activism in public and non-public spaces, followed by Chinese dance scholar Xindi Cao, who writes about dance as a social activity in quarantine during the Covid pandemic. Authors Michaela Kessler and Lenka Flory present their own project involving artists and communities from various countries, while researcher Elisa Frasson explores summer dance festivals in Italy and Zden Brungot Svíteková reflects on her artistic research on interaction with the landscape in various places. Finally, the section concludes with a discussion by Anna Lauenstein and Nadja Rothenburger about their experimental dance documentary.

The Journal continues with an expert article by Hana Strejčková, who explores different forms of site-specific performance through her own work, ethnologist Anna Varousová, with whom we take a look at kermesses in the Brno region, and finally dance scholar Andi Johnson, who analyzes the presentation of dance in the digital public space.

The publication includes the traditional trio of articles recapping the latest ballet (Roman Vašek), contemporary dance (Lucie Hayashi), and new circus and non-verbal theatre (Hana Strejčková) seasons.

In its concept and periodicity, the Journal follows the Special Edition, which the Taneční aktuality editorial team published between 2018 and 2023, making it a sort of second generation. Each issue of the Special Edition (2018-2023) or Dance Context Journal (from 2024) is available to order in print and electronic versions from our website. Dance Context Journal 2024 can also be purchased at our distribution points, such as at bookstores Kosmas, Karolinum, Academia, Ostrov, and others.

The publication will officially be launched on 29 November at the Inspirace Theatre, as part of the international conference “Choreology - Past and Present”. New circus artist Eliška Brtnická, who has extensive experience with performance in public space, will welcome the Journal into the world. The evening will be moderated by our editor Clara Zanga.

Would you like to be part of Dance Context Journal too? Send us your proposal to contribute to the 2025 edition, which bears the theme "Identities in Dance". Just fill out our call for papers form! We look forward to reading your submissions!