CONTENT
A. WHAT IS DANCE?
Body in Motion; non-verbal expression
Basic dance as defined by John Martin, the common impulse to resort to movement TD
externalize emotional states, which we cannot externalize by rational means.
ELEMENTS OF DANCE
Movemcnt, Pulse, Breath. Rhythm, Space, Time, Energy, Dynamics
Demonstrate and practice an exploration of some of the baste elements of dance. It is
essential to experience the kmetic energy of the body in motion. The objective is to
develop an ability to give an educated appraisal of the essential value or quality of the
dance, and to be able to recognize different element present in the dance_
B. Historical Perspective of Dance
The use of dance in religious ceremonies, pageants, festivals, dance drama and Greek
society
Discuss the function of Dance in religious ceremonies, festivals and dance dramas.
Identify the duel function of dance in Greek society with its functions today.
Each student explores a different group and discusses its nature, function and affect on
Culture.
liS.
C. Dance Cultures of the World_
Exploration of a variety of ethnic forms and the way these structural dance forms were
disseminated into the cultural structures.
Distinguish between a variety of dance forms recognizing their ethnic origins Discuss
how different structural forms of the dance reflect cultural customs and values.
D. Social and Recreational Dance
Historical evolution of the dance from folk to court, from group dancing to couple
dancing, moving into recreauonal and theatrical dance.
Exploration of the relationship between dancers and group.
How the style of the dance dictated social postilion and acceptable behavior
regarding gender interaction_
Explain the evolution of group dancing to couple dancing. Tell how the technical
demands of the movement reflected the mores and values of that period of society.
E. Recreational Dance ''People at Play'"
Exploration of many different cultural influences and styles of dance contributmg t o
Social Dance.
Experiment with different social dance steps and music. Demonstrate an ability to
distinguish between different dance influences. Such as Latin, Merengue. Samba,
Mambo, Salsa etc. European, Waltz, Square Dance, Line, African, Charleston- Rag-,
Rock and Roll, Swing etc..
F. How recreational dance became a way for immigrants to retain their ethnic and
Cultural roots_ How these forms influenced the creation of the dance culture in the United
States.
Discuss the role of dance in society, employing examples of different structural forms
and styles, and their intent and use m the culture.
lVflDTERM
THEATRICAL DANCE FORMS:
A. BALLET
B.
C.
D.
E.
MUSICAL THEATER, VAUDEVJLLE,TAP,JAZZ
MODERN
POSTMODERN
POP-FOLK
A. BALLET
The development of the Ballet from Italy to the Royal courts of France, Russia,
110d the United States.
a.) a brief survey of some of the major companies, dancers and
choreographers.
B. MUSICAL THEATER
Explore the historical reference, cultural and ethnic influences of the uniquely
American dance forms such as Jazz, Tap and the Musical Theater.
C. MODERN DANCE
Follow the development of Modern Dance beginning with Isadora Duncan and Mary
Wigman. Explore the evolution of Modem Dance in America and how this dance broke
from traditional standards. Survey major dancers, choreographers and companies.
Observe the intent of what they were attempting to communicate.
D. POST MODERN DANCE
An overview of the concert dance of thc day. Exploring the evolution of the technical
virtuosity of the performers to the perfection of the technology from Nikolais to Cirque
De Solei]: from Meredith Monk to Pina Bausch. Discussion of how the demands on the
dancer have increased. They must be able to perform all styles as
well as possibly sing and act.
POP-FOLK The influence of the media, Rap. H1p-Hop, MTV, Film Video,
TV, Modern Technology; its far-reaching effect on the world as well as its influence on
our daily lives.
E. DANCE AS A HEALING ART FORM
The use of dance in our daily lives. The connection of the body, mind and spirit;
Somatic and kinesthetic understanding is a way to a deeper understanding of the self_
a brief exploration of some of the leaders of the dance therapy community. "Whoso
Danceth not knoweth not the way of life"
G.PRESENTATION OF RESEARCH PAPERS TO THE CLASS
Observe how these dance styles influenced the rest of the world: and how the rest of
the world was influenced by them.
H_ FINAL