Dance Notation Bureau

The Dance Notation Bureau (DNB) is one of few institutions in the world dedicated to preserving dance through Labanotation.  It is named after its inventor, Rudolf Laban (1879-1958), an Austro-Hungarian dance educator, choreographer and dance theorist.  Founded by Ann Hutchinson Guest, Helen Priest Rogers, Eve Gentry, and Janey Price in 1940, the primary mission of the DNB is to facilitate the recording, preservation, and dissemination of dance scores. This unique system provides a precise and comprehensive method for capturing the complexities of human movement. Labanotation uses symbols to represent aspects such as direction, level, timing, and body parts moving, offering a universal language for choreographers, dancers, and educators.

The DNB stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of dance education, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of dance through the art of notation. By providing comprehensive educational programs, supporting choreographers and performers, and engaging in cutting-edge research, the DNB plays a vital role in ensuring that the rich heritage of dance is accurately documented and accessible for future generations. Through its tireless efforts, the DNB continues to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of dance as both an art form and a means of human expression.