This book is a celebration, in words but particularly in photographs, of Merce Cunningham and the central place he occupies in the world of dance and in the avant-garde of the other arts of our era. Cunningham uses painting and music, not as conventional scenery and accompaniment, but as independent art works that happen to share space and time with the dancers. He has achieved a theater of remarkable interest and unique beauty, and his ideas about, for example, space and time in performance are influential forces in the arts today. A number of Cunningham's well-known collaborators have contributed to the text of the book, with pieces ranging from Gordon Mumma's recollections of company history, to Jasper Johns' interview with Klosty, to John Cage's light-hearted ruminations on touring with the Cunningham company. Several dancers who have worked with Cunningham have written appreciations, in particular Carolyn Brown, whose thoughtful memoir captures much of the essence of Cunningham and of sharing his work for twenty years. Editor Klosty introduces the book with his own essay on Cunningham's aspirations and achievements. The central focus of this book is dance - Merce Cunningham is essentially, and spectacularly, a dancer. But, just as Cunningham's range of interests, ideas, and choices of associates has extended beyond dance, so too does Merce Cunningham embrace a wide spectrum of artistic endeavor. The book records one of the crucial connections in the American avant-garde - that between Merce Cunningham and his artistic peers. - Back cover.