About the Author: Robert Pranzatelli is the author of a number of essays published by the Paris Review and other literary journals, and a longtime staff member of Yale University Press.

We have known Robert as an admirer of Pilobolus, as a fellow artist through his writings, and as a trusted friend. Over the years, he has seen our dances and we’ve read his works: short stories and a novel about dreams, creation, identity, and the workings of the imagination, as well as essays on arts and culture published by the Paris Review, including a memorable piece on photographer John Kane’s work with Pilobolus and Momix.

When he proposed writing a book on Pilobolus, we agreed, but it wasn’t long into our first interview that I realized this would be something special. Robert mined and collected details that gave me a completely new understanding of the phenomenon of which I had become a part.

Robert Pranzatelli has developed and presented the most complete understanding of what Pilobolus is, how it came into being, and where we are going. Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the company, whether you love the vintage classics, the shadow work, or our newest creations, Robert will satisfy your curiosity. He explains the process, the relationships, and the way of life that is Pilobolus, delving into the mysterious and ineffable human impulses and forces of creation, without reducing the story to mere facts.

His ability to describe dances without visual aids is remarkable, and he does so in a poetic and clear way that resonates with those who have performed these works. The inclusion of John Kane and Jonathan Sa'adah’s brilliant photographs is a bonus, making this book visually as well as intellectually engaging.

Robert Pranzatelli’s Pilobolus: A Story of Dance and Life is an essential read for anyone who has ever been enchanted by Pilobolus. It is a testament to the artistry, creativity, and enduring spirit of our company.

— Matt Kent, Pilobolus Artistic Director

Advance Critical Praise

“Pranzatelli captures the changes the troupe has undergone in the 50 years between its beginning as a countercultural phenomenon and its current state as an established part of dance history. . . .He shows us how dances come together. His keen analysis of such works as ‘Day Two’ and ‘Gnomen’ helps us see more deeply into their beauty, fostering a new appreciation for this pathbreaking company.”—John Check, The Wall Street Journal

“Perceptive and insightful . . . An important contribution to modern American dance history.”—Carolyn Mulac, Booklist

“Pranzatelli gives behind-the-scenes insight into both the art-making process and the often-grueling business of running a dance company. The book includes photographs, some never before published, that give readers a taste of Pilobolus’s hallmark bodily wizardry. . . .Pranzatelli’s vivid descriptions of the group’s canonical pieces will have readers running to find videos to see the magic for themselves.”—Shannon Titas, Library Journal

“Pranzatelli navigates us through the insouciance and absurdity of Pilobolus’ past, which turns out to be very much about its future—delving into the possibilities of dance theatre.”—Robert Steven Mack, Arts Fuse

“Wonderful!”—Dance Teacher

“A masterful job of capturing the history . . . The physicality, the humor, and the fluidity all come to life on the page . . . A magical book, beautifully written. . . . An absolute marvel.”—Gil Roth, Virtual Memories Show (podcast)

“Sometimes when you explain how a magic trick works, it kills the amazement. This book proves the opposite. When Pranzatelli takes you backstage, he leads you Dante-like through the Inferno/mystery of Pilobolus. And you will—as I do—love, love, love these people who fearlessly flex their hearts with their muscles, and fill their stage with beauty, humor, sex, and joy.”—Teller (of Penn & Teller)  

“What a joyful, absorbing chronicle of creativity. With skillful prose and miles of heart, Pranzatelli captures the wit, sensuality, and daring of Pilobolus, the group that blew up dance theatre and keeps making discoveries after more than 50 years.”—Sarah L. Kaufman, Pulitzer Prize–winning dance critic, author of The Art of Grace: On Moving Well Through Life  

“A highly readable, insightful journey into the history, creative process, and fascinating personalities of America’s most inventive dance/theatre company.”—Steven Banks, playwright, actor, and New York Times–bestselling writer  

“Pranzatelli lovingly captures the enchanted, ingenious world of Pilobolus: the open-hearted spirit of discovery; the fearless commitment to exploration; the irreverent, unquenchable creativity of the artists who have shaped and reshaped this remarkable project over the decades.”—Trish Sie, filmmaker, Sitting in Bars with Cake  

“A thorough, insightful, expressive, and very readable account of a singular dance troupe. While chronicling Pilobolus’s journey through the decades, and astutely spotlighting relevant people, dynamics, and context, this book gives a sense of the troupe’s vitality, in part through eloquent description and analysis of specific dance works and overall aesthetic.”—Celia Wren, theatre and dance writer  

“Pranzatelli has written the saga of a creative ‘chosen family,’ and it is both appealing and a real page-turner.”—Elizabeth Zimmer, coeditor of Envisioning Dance on Film and Video

Read an excerpt and view the book trailer here.

Pilobolus: A Story of Dance and Life offers previously untold details about the group’s history and the creation of its most significant works.

A portion of proceeds from books purchased through The Hickory Stick Bookshop will be generously donated to Pilobolus.