Dance Definitions and Techniques

Dance Definitions and Concepts

• Art reflects and critiques the society that creates it.
• European heritage is characterized by a fusion of spectacle, music, and physical virtuosity.
• Classical forms of dance include Kabuki and ballet.
• Groups of performers, patrons, and spectators played crucial roles in preserving dance traditions from extinction.
• Classic dance theater is often expensive to produce.
• Suki Schorer, a principal dancer, was associated with Balanchine's NYC Ballet.

Dance Techniques and Movements

• The "fish dive" involves a female dancer leaping into a male partner's arms, requiring trust.
• Ballerinas typically do not reveal the physical strain or pain they endure during performances, maintaining an illusion of ease.
• In contrast, Kabuki dancers emphasize the physical aspects of their performances.
• A plié is a foundational exercise in ballet involving a knee bend.

Influential Figures in Ballet

• George Balanchine served as ballet master of the NYC Ballet for 35 years.
• Fanny Elssler was a star performer at the Paris Opera Ballet.
• Marie Taglioni is remembered as the original Sylphide, embodying the ethereal quality of Romantic ballet.
• Ballerinas in the Romantic Era were often perceived as "more than human", symbolizing grace and artistry.

Historical Context of Kabuki

• Kabuki originated from impromptu street dances, evolving to gain societal acceptance.
• Onnagata are Kabuki performers specialized in female roles, with prominent figures like Bando Tamasaburo.
• The younger generation in ballet focuses on preserving the dance's legacy, while the older generation maintains its customs.
• Training for Kabuki begins as early as age five.
• Nakamura Utaemon VI was honored as a "living national treasure" by the Japanese government for his contribution to Kabuki.

Cultural Shifts and Regulations

• Okuni, an informal dancer, was invited to perform for the emperor in 1603, marking a significant recognition of Kabuki.
• Women were banned from performing in Kabuki in 1629 to uphold public morality and protect patriarchal society.
• By 1652, only men were permitted to perform Kabuki, leading to a male-dominated art form.
• Shoguns enforced caste systems and public displays, reinforcing social hierarchies.
• Daimyo were the land-owning feudal lords influencing the social structure of the time.

Performance and Society

• By 1657, Kabuki performances were restricted to designated theater districts.
• Obedience was regarded as the most valuable virtue in the social hierarchy.
• Masterless samurai, or ronin, were warriors who lost their lord's favor and service.
• Suicides in Kabuki were common, leading to imitative behavior among young lovers.
• Edo, the largest city in the 18th century, was a pivotal cultural center for Kabuki theater.

Kabuki Theatrical Elements

• Kabuki festivals began in the early morning and continued until dusk, drawing large crowds.
• Attending Kabuki could be seen as shameful, leading some audience members to hide their presence.
• Merchants formed the most devoted audience for Kabuki, finding escape in the performances from their regulated lives.
• The Kabuki cast is composed of characters that adhered to social codes, making the performances relatable to the audience.
• Striking imagery is a significant draw for Kabuki performances, enhancing the visual experience.

Technical Aspects of Kabuki

• "Kata" refers to the discrete forms of dance techniques, including traditional poses and gestures.
• "Roppos" are specific kata representing entrances and exits in performance.
• "Shosagoto" focuses on dance over narrative, prioritizing movement for its own sake.
• "The Dancing Maiden at Dojo Temple" is recognized as the most famous dance piece in Kabuki.
• The standard Kabuki repertory comprises around 350 plays, showcasing its rich theatrical tradition.

Explore the intricate world of dance with this quiz focused on definitions, concepts, and techniques. Delve into the roles of influential figures such as George Balanchine and discover the unique movements found in ballet and Kabuki styles. Test your knowledge on how dance interacts with society and its evolving traditions.