Creating a written inventory of your works and the documentation that exists for each will clarify which works are inadequately documented and which documents are in poor condition. You can then set about creating a thorough documentation of your dance career, which is essential in promoting your work during your life and after your death. An inventory also helps in executing your will according to your wishes.

There are many types of materials useful in documenting dance. It is up to you to decide which items fulfill your particular needs and desires. If you wish your work to continue being performed, dance notation and videotapes are particularly crucial, whereas, videos and oral histories are crucial for an historical record of your life and work. The most comprehensive dance documentation, however, includes the following materials:

I.   Scores:

- Notated Dance score

- Marked Music Score

II.   Recordings:

Videos or film

- Performance tapes

- Rehearsal tapes (including works in progress and completed)

- On stage without performance lighting or costumes

- On stage with costumes and work (video) lighting

Audio Recordings

- Performance quality sound tracks

- Rehearsal quality audio cassette tapes

- Audio recordings with voice overs (movement cues)

IV.   Production Elements

Rehearsal and performance notes (of choreographer or others)

Set designs

- Lighting design and plots

- Costume designs

- Fabric swatches

- Prop designs

- Casting information

- Rehearsal schedules

- Stage manager notebook

V.   Publicity

- Programs

- Press releases

- Articles and reviews

- Interviews

- Photographs