The main research work of the Dance Philology group consists in defining a methodology and the basic principles for producing a critical edition of a choreographic score. At present, the focus is particularly on transcriptions of nineteenth-century ballets.
The group’s activities include a series of lectures on choreographic, musicological, and theatrical topics of broad scope, aimed at building a body of historical knowledge and insights useful to the primary objective of the research. Some lectures adopt a methodological perspective, while others take on a historical approach. At times, they are delivered by members of the group, in other cases by guests (see Lectures).
A smaller part of the group has undertaken a detailed study of Stepanov notation and is currently working on the critical editions of Le Réveil de Flore by Petipa-Drigo, Les Millions d’Arlequin by the same artists, and Giselle by Coralli/Perrot-Adam (see Stepanov Notation Workshops).
Some researchers work, or have worked, alongside professional dancers to reconstruct on the body the ballets for which they are preparing the critical edition (see Practical Workshops in Philological Reconstruction).
When necessary, external scholars or artists are invited to hold supplementary specialist workshops designed to deepen certain more specific topics (see Supplementary Specialist Workshops).
