Introduction to Dance: Art and History

Introduction to Dance

• Dance is an expression of the body, often accompanied by music.
• Dance is a form of art, showcasing body movement.
• Dance can express emotions like birth, death, marriage, and war.
• Choreography is the creation and arrangement of dance sequences, steps, patterns, and routines to music.
• Choreographers collaborate with dancers to bring artistic visions to life.

Background of Dance

• Prehistoric dance was used to supplicate gods on important occasions.
• Mediterranean and Middle Eastern civilizations used dance for worship.
• Ancient Egyptians used carvings and literature to record dance.
• Ancient Greek dance was categorized as Noble (aesthetic) and Ignoble (vain), often used for recreation and entertainment.
• In Ancient Rome, dance was viewed as a waste of time, and its art form was deemed less valuable.
• During the Dark and Early Middle Ages, public dancing became popular, with round and pair dances being favored by farmers.
• During the Renaissance period (15th and 16th centuries), new dance styles, including ballet emerged.
• New dances appeared and were developed during the height of ballet fame

Styles of Dance

• The presentation showed common dance styles, including Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Folkdance, Modern, Hip-Hop, Ballroom, and Cheerleading.

Ballet

• Ballet is often considered the backbone of dance.
• Ballet uses specific techniques and requires dedication for perfect execution.
• Ballet is categorized as Classical, Neoclassical, and Contemporary.

Classical Ballet

• It is a formal style.
• It follows traditional ballet techniques.

Neoclassical Ballet

• Evolved from classical ballet.
• It is abstract in form.
• It emphasizes athleticism and strong moves.

Contemporary Ballet

• Inspired by classical ballet and incorporates modern jazz techniques.

Contemporary Dance

• Combines modern, ballet, and jazz elements.
• Used to freely express feelings.

Jazz Dance

• It's a lively and enthusiastic dance style, naturally combined with upbeat music (like hip-hop).
• Jazz adds theatrical flair.

Traditional Dance

• Dance that serves leisure, ceremonial, or traditional purposes in a community.

Modern Dance

• Evolved in the 20th century as a response to classical ballet.
• Modern dance differs drastically from ballet.

Hip-Hop Dance

• A popular and diverse style of hip-hop.

Elements of Dance

• Body: The dancer's instrument, including shapes, movements, and actions.
• Energy: The quality of movement (force, flow, dynamics).
• Space: The area where the dance occurs (direction, level, size, pathways).
• Time: The dance's rhythm, speed, and duration (tempo).

Dance Qualities

• Sustained: Smooth and constant movements without distinct start/finish.
• Percussive: Violent or acute movements with a clear start and end, often using footwork.
• Vibratory: Restless effect created by quick shaking movements.
• Swinging: Characterized by curved or arched motions.
• Suspended: Frozen gestures.
• Collapsing: Motions that show a gradual or abrupt sinking to the ground.