In line with the requirements of potential Bookers, each company gives an artistic overview, recent and forthcoming productions, and education work offered. There is also a section called Hard Facts with numbers of dancers, videos available and contact details (so that's how Sweeney knows the phone numbers and email addresses of so many companies!). Press quotes are included, also chosen by the companies, which do tend to be on the positive side. I was rather hoping that one brave soul would include something along the lines of 'Company X were rubbish, I wished I'd stayed home and watched Coronation St.', but I haven't found one, yet.

Other dance fans who have seen the book have also found it interesting and it certainly provides a fine overview of the diversity of UK dance. In addition it is very helpful in getting some idea of what you might expect when a company you don't know is appearing at a local venue. The Guide costs £10 + £1 postage and is obtainable directly from Dance UK, contact details are given below.

Dance UK was formed in 1982 in response to a need from many parts of the dance profession to find a unified voice. The organisation campaigns on behalf of the profession and organises a range of seminars, meetings and conferences. It is a membership organisation responding primarily to the needs of dancers and choreographers, but also including administrators, technicians, teachers and audience members.

Dance UK has focussed on particular issues in the dance world. A key concern has been to increase knowledge and understanding of health and fitness issues among medical practitioners, dancers and companies. A number of publications and information sheets have resulted from these initiatives, including the report 'Fit to Dance?' and The Healthier Dancer Programme which has the active participation of ENB. Dance UK also offers other specialist advice sheets on themes such as flooring for dance, tax and insurance for dance professionals and a register of medical practitioners with expertise in dance injuries.

There is also a regular magazine covering current issues and personalities in UK dance. This provides insights into the funding, education and administration structures that help to produce the dance that we all enjoy. For instance, a recent edition gives details of the Arts Council dance awards for the current year. Membership of Dance UK would enable you to have a clearer understanding of how dance happens in the UK and strengthen the voice of the dance community.

If you would like to order 'A Booker's Guide to British Dance' at £10 +£1 postage, or find out more about membership (£20 pa) or see some sample publications including their magazine, contact Dance UK at 23 Crisp Rd, London, W6 9RL or ring on 0181 741 1932 or e-mail, danceuk@easynet.co.uk.