John Weaver (dancer)

John Weaver (1673 – 24 February 1736) was an English dancing master, choreographer, author, and pioneer of English pantomime and dance theory.

Weaver is considered an important figure in the history of British theatre and dance. He is credited with introducing pantomime as a theatrical genre to England in 1702 with "The Tavern Bilkers," though his most successful pantomime was "The Loves of Mars and Venus" (1717). He sought to elevate dance to a respected art form, comparable to poetry and painting, arguing for its intellectual and expressive capabilities.

Weaver’s publications were instrumental in establishing the theoretical foundation for dance in England. These included translations of foreign dance treatises, as well as his own writings on gesture, anatomy, and the history of dance. His most notable works include "An Essay Towards an History of Dancing" (1712), a comprehensive history of dance from antiquity to his own time; "Anatomical and Mechanical Lectures upon Dancing" (1721), which explored the biomechanics of dance movements; and "A Small Treatise of Time and Cadence in Dancing" (1706), focusing on the rhythmic structure of dance. He emphasized the importance of understanding the body’s mechanics in executing dance steps and advocated for a systematic approach to dance training.

Beyond his theoretical contributions, Weaver was a prolific choreographer. He created numerous dances for the stage, often incorporating elements of classical mythology and allegory. His works were known for their dramatic flair and expressive use of gesture. He also experimented with dance drama, attempting to tell stories solely through movement, prefiguring later developments in ballet d'action.

Weaver’s influence extended beyond his own lifetime. His writings helped to shape the understanding of dance among English audiences and practitioners, laying the groundwork for future generations of dancers and choreographers. He contributed significantly to the professionalization of dance as an art form in England.