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PE & HEALTH

12
DANCE
1ST QUARTER
TRADITIONAL FOLK AND
ETHNIC DANCE

BALLROOM
MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY DANCE DANCE
OBJECTIVES:
•  Identify dance and dancing.
•  Appreciate and apply different values of dance.
•  Recognize the elements of dance
What is Dance?
Dance comes from the German word damson, which means
“to stretch or “to drag”. It developed as a natural expression
of united feeling and action. Dance is considered the mirror of
the society because it responds to historical and religious
events as well as social and political statements.
Dance refers to movement set to music where there
emerges organization, structure and pattern. It is a
composition that implies arrangement of parts into a form.

Dancing is a means of expressing one’s emotions through


movement disciplined by rhythm. It is an act of moving
rhythmically and expressively to an accompaniment. The word
dancing came from an old German word “danson” which means to
“stretch”. Essentially, all dancing is made up of stretching and
relaxing.
PHASES OF THE DANCE PROGRAM
1. Creative Rhythms

Creative rhythms are sometimes called fundamental rhythms or natural dances. It is an end product of
exploration and improvisation of movements as children learn to move the parts of their body and
touse them as instruments of expression.

2. Folk/Ethnic Dance

It is a cultural art form handed down from generation to generations. It communicates the customs,
beliefs, rituals, and occupations of the people of a region or country. Folk dancing belongs to the
people. It emanates from them. Ethnic tribes have their specific tribal art forms originated and danced
by the people of the tribe. Examples of folk dances are the rural and country dances, jotas, mazurkas,
pandanggos, among others with foreign influence. Examples of ethnic dances are the dances of the
mountain peoples of the Cordilleras, dances of the ethnic groups in the Cagayan Valley Region and the
ethnic dances in the Mindanao Regions.
3. Social and Ballroom Dance

The setting of the social and ballroom dance is a social gathering with the more formal atmosphere
than the simple and informal parties in which the recreational dances are the usual forms. Social and
ballroom dancing are generally held in the evenings. The participants are usually in formal attire.

4. Recreational Dance

It includes dance mixers, square dance round and couple dances. Many of these dances have
simple patterns and combinations of walking steps, polka step and the waltz step. The setting is
usually informal gatherings and parties, reunions etc.

5. Creative Dance

It is the highest form of dance. It is the end-product of exploration and improvisation of movements
as the dancer or the choreographer expresses his feelings or emotions, ideas, and interpretations.
This is a dance with a definite form, a beginning and an ending. The principles of art form are all
observed in the composition of the dance. Examples of creative dance are ballet, jazz, and modern
or contemporary dance.
TRADITIONAL FOLK
AND
ETHNIC DANCE
HISTORY
The history of Philippine folk dancing
incorporates influences from immigrants and
conquerors while at the same time maintaining
distinctly Filipino roots. Philippine folk dancing is a
true reflection of daily life in past centuries while
enchanting modern audiences at the same time
(Crawford, 2019).
PHILIPPINE FOLK DANCE

In the Philippines, Francisca Reyes-Aquino, known as the “Mother of


Philippine Folk Dancing”, spearheaded the development of
PhilippineFolk dances.

According to Francisca Reyes- Aquino, folk dances may be


classifiedby geographical extent of origin, nature, speed of
movement,formation, and distinguishing feature. Lately, folkloric
specialistsmerged regional and functional classifications to sort out
the differentdance materials. (Lopez, 2006)
What is FOLK DANCE

 Folk dance is an indigenous dance of any specific “folk”


or the common people.
 According to Marbella (2014), folk dancing is a form of
social dancing that has become part of the customs and
traditions of people. Most folk dances developed among
people in villages and were passed on from generation
to generation in a particular region. In many of these
dances, group of dancers from such basic pattern as a
circle, line or curved, moving the line called a chain.
Traditional Dance

Traditional dance can be another term for folk dance, or sometimes even for
ceremonial dance. The term ‘Traditional’ is more frequently used when the
emphasis is on the cultural roots of the dance. A Traditional dance will therefore
have arisen from a people’s cultural traditions, for example, the folk dances of
indigenous populations of Europe. However, dances that have a ritual origin or
purpose are not usually considered to be Traditional dances. These are known
as ‘Religious dances’ instead.
 Value
- helps keep the people connected to their ancestry and their traditions.
-helps to preserve the cultural unity of the people.

 Importance
- they help keep a culture alive. People have been doing folk dances for
hundreds of years, and there is value keeping that tradition alive.
-they preserve the Philippine culture and pass it on to the next
generation. They are a uniting force to the Philippine people.

 Dance step
- Are created from man’s basic movement: walk, run, jump, hop, skip, slide,
leap, turn, and sway. Folk and ethnic dances are combinations of those
basic movements have been used to: social or ballroom dances, ballet,
and modern expressive dance.
According to Roper (2019) the following are examples of folk dance:

Example of Philippine Folkdance

 Tinikling – Leyte.
 Itik-Itik – Surigao del Sur.
 Maglalatik – Biñan, Laguna.
 Binasuan – Pangasinan.
 The Sayaw sa Bangko
 The Pandanggo sa Ilaw
 The kuratsa
 Cariñosa – Panay Island
 The Tinikling

- Is considered by many to be the


Philippines' national dance. The dance's movements imitate
the movement of the tikling bird as it walks around through
tall grass and between tree branches. People perform the
dance using bamboo poles. The dance is composed of three
basic steps which include singles, doubles and hops. It looks
similar to playing jump rope, except that the dancers perform
the steps around and between the bamboo poles, and the
dance becomes faster until someone makes a mistake and
the next set of dancers takes a turn.
The Itik-Itik

- The steps mimic the way a duck walks, as well as the way it
splashes water on its back to attract a mate. According to popular
tradition, the dance was created by a lady named Kanang who
choreographed the steps while dancing at a baptismal party. The
other guests copied her movements, and everyone liked the dance
so much that it has been passed along ever since.
 The Maglalatik

- Is a mock war dance that depicts a fight over coconut meat,


a highly-prized food. The dance is broken into four parts: two
devoted to the battle and two devoted to reconciling. The men of
the dance wear coconut shells as part of their costumes, and they
slap them in rhythm with the music. The Maglalatik is danced in the
religious procession during the fiesta of Biñan as an offering to San
Isidro de Labrador, the patron saint of farmers.
 The Binasuan

- Is an entertaining dance that is usually performed at festive


social occasions like weddings and birthdays. Dancers carefully
balance three half-filled glasses of rice wine on their heads and
hands as they gracefully spin and roll on the ground. The dance
originated in Bayambang in the Pangasinan province, and though it's
usually performed alone, it can also become a competition between
several dancers.
 The Sayaw sa Bangko

- Is performed on top of a narrow bench. Dancers need good


balance as they go through a series of movements that include
some impressive acrobatics. This dance traces its root back to the
areas of Lingayen and Pangasinan.
 The Pandanggo sa Ilaw

- Is similar to a Spanish Fandango, but the Pandanggo is


performed while balancing three oil lamps - one on the head, and
one in each hand. It's a lively dance that originated on Lubang
Island. The music is in 3/4 time and is usually accompanied by
castanets.
 The Kuratsa

- Is described as a dance of courtship and is often performed


at weddings and other social occasions. The dance has three
parts. The couple first performs a waltz. In the second part, the
music sets a faster pace as the man pursues the woman around
the dance floor in a chase. To finish, the music becomes even
faster as the man wins over the woman with his mating dance.
 The Cariñosa

- Is a dance made for flirting! Dancers make a number of


flirtatious movements as they hide behind fans or handkerchiefs
and peek out at one another. The essence of the dance is the
courtship between two sweethearts.
ETHNIC DANCE

Ethnic dances or ethnological dances are those performed in


primitive tribes and have retained their close kinship with religious
ritual community custom.
Is a dance formed originating from an ethnic culture that expresses
the aesthetics of a particular culture (Shistine, 2018).
Ethnic dance is a term used to denote the general body of all dances
of ethnic minorities in any given nation. Such dances would include
classical and contemporary (Satapathy, 2019).
Some examles of ethnic dance:

Binanog Binaylan
Pinagkabula
Inagong Pinegket
Saut Binalanak
Tinambol Pi-agawan
Talupak Pagadugsa
Dugso
Binanog
- A Typical Dance of the Talaandig tribe mimicking the
movement of the bird up in the air called "Bano”

Inagong
- A dance for entertainment performed during
festivals and gatherings.

Saut
- A dance of male Talaanding tribe presenting their expertise
in style and arts in fighting their opponents or enemies with their
ritual dances for offering to their magbabaya (GOD).
 Tinambol
-A dance performed by male and female Talaandig for
entertainment and sometimes in their ritual dances for
offering to their Magbabaya.

 Talupak
-A dance depicting the way and style in planting, harvesting and
winnowing palays. This is performing for public entertainment.

 Dugso
-Ritual dance performed by women during religious celebration,
kaligaon.
Binaylan
-The dance of the Baylan or Priest during a hinaklaran ritual.

 Pinagkabula
-A dance perfomance solo.

 Pinegket
-A dance imitating one who is suffering from legs cramp.

 Binalanak
-Social dance.
 Pi-agawan
-A courtship dance performed by two men and a woman, with
one man winning the maiden love.

 Pagadugsa
-A dance mimicking the hunters adventure.
Characteristics of Philippine Folk dances:

1.In general, dancers stand apart.


2.There is little, if any, bodily contact.
3.Most of the dances are done by pairs or couples.
4.Hand movements play an important part.
5.Most dances are in long formation.
6.Most dances begin and end with “saludo.”
7.Dances from the lowlands have more foreign elements those
found in the uplands.
8.War dances are found among non-Christian tribes.
MODERN AND
CONTEMPORARY
DANCE
What is Modern Dance?
Modern Dance is an evolution from classical ballet.With all various
stricttechniques found in classicalballet are totally opposite
ofmodern dance. It has moreflexibility so choreographercan be more
creative inmaking a new piece.

Modern dance also can be seen as a fusion of many dances.


Thesophisticated movement of modern dance already developed
many styles and techniques. The beauty ofmodern dance is that it
allow a wholeflow of creativity which can be asource of inspiration
with the music.
History of Modern Dance

According to historians, modern dance has two main


birthplaces: Europe (Germany specifically) and the United
States of America. Although it evolves as a concert dance
form, it has no direct roots in any ballet companies, schools
or artists. Modern dance emerges as a consequence of its
time, alone and outside any academic institution.
François Delsarte (1811 - 1871, France).

He is considered as a precursor by modern dance history


because he invented a theory about relationship between
movement and feelings. He concluded that each emotion and
mental images corresponds a movement or attempt of it. The
idea of feelings and their intensity cause of movement and its
quality. His contribution is the elaboration of gestures which
completely different compared to classical dance tradition. His
study produced a logic system about the relationship between
different parts of the body, movement and human feelings. He
also invent the fundamental notion of the gesture’s
expressiveness.
Émile Jaques-Dalcroze
(1865 - 1950, Austria - Switzerland).

Dalcroze is a pianist and conductor for modern dance because


he invents a new approach to movement called “Rhythmics” or
“Eurhythmics”. His contribution is the relationship between music
and movement. He also create original education method through
movement
Rudolph Laban (1879 – 1958, Hungary - U.K.).
1-

Rudolph Laban created a system for analysing and recording


movement: Kynetography (Labanotation). Some articles published
by him are still important references for dance theory and history
such as “Choreutic” , “The Mastery of Movement” and “Educational
Modern Dance”.
Mary Wigman (1886 – 1973 Germany):

Similar to Laban, Dalcroze and Delsarte, Wigman


develops her own understanding of dance and
traduces it in a significant amount of choreographic
pieces. She opposes classical dance values and
methods. Instead, she search dance that would
accomplish an expressive function of the dancer’s
soul. Her choreograph is considered as part of the
artistic trend called German expressionism. Her
practice give its name the dance of expression or
“Ausdrückstanz” (in German). her dance
Her dance pieces are remembered for their tragic,
dark character and are described as introspective
dances that reveal vibrant, vital, excited and
passionate inner states of being. According to
modern dance history, she influenced the whole
German dance trend during the 1920s and 1930s
and what follows after the war. Her most famous
piece is called “Hexentanz” (The Witch).
Loïe Fuller (1862 – 1928,
United States of America)

Loïe Fuller is not considered as a dancer or a choreographer. This


is because her main concern is not dance, or movement itself, as it
is for the whole rest of following modern dancers. Though, she is
produced lots of scenic art pieces involving experiments mixing
lightning, scenic elements and dance.
Isadora Duncan Modern dance history describes Isadora as
(1878 - 1927, U.S.A. an emblematic figure of freedom. She
- France) refuses to follow academic dance education
and has the courage to break dance
traditions and social codes. She produced
her dance based on expression of her
personel life. She’s inclined to nature which
makes her dances involving waves, clouds,
trees and wind. For modern dance history,
she points the birth of another type of dance,
which would be the consequence of an
interior movement of the dancer.
At the same time, she carries a new spirit of liberation from
conventions and an idea of dance as an expression of the divinity
inside every human being. Her contribution is not considered in
terms of technique but cultural process of opening minds. She
invented a gestural language and adapting movement to the
artistic project. She is remembered mainly because of her boosting
to the liberation of conventional codes that restrict body (and
especially feminine body) as a general fact in society
Ruth Saint Denis (1877 - 1968, U.S.A.)

Ruth Saint Denis performance mainly in US. She grows within an


ideological of oriental religions which can be found in her cheograph.
She has her own philosophical and mystical discourse too. She and
Ted Shawn are known for combining the passionate charisma of Saint-
Denis with the technical rigor of Shawn. Their choreograph are
remembered for the spectacular format and development of musical
visualizations. Considered to be the front of the “modern dance
revolution”.American dancer and choreographer, was one of thefounders
of modern dance.
Ted Shawn (1891- 1972, U.S.A.)

After the dissolution of the Denishawn School and company, Ted


Shawn continues his choreographic career independently. The first
company composed by men only by attracting and educates boys that
look like muscular atheletes, creating imagies of masculine and
sportive dancer. He also founder of The Jacob’s Pillow , a
choreographic center.
Doris Humphrey (1895 - 1958, U.S.A.)

Doris Humphrey joins the Denishawn in 1917, being already a dance teacher in
her native province. She’s known for being contrastingly sober beside the
commercial and spectacular wastes of Saint Denis. She also created theatrical
sense and works using pantomime and humor. She develops an original
dancing technique observing relationship between gravity and human body.
She found principle for dance : Fall and Recovery. She also teaches important
notions like weight, rebound, suspension and the importance of breath. Another
one of her contributions is the understanding of the dancing group as a main
choreographic entity and not only as a mass counterpointing the soloist.
Jose Limon (José Arcadio Limón,
1908 - 1972, Mexico - U.S.A.)
Jose Limon is responsible for spreading
Humphrey’s technique in Europe. His expression
of a consciousness of precarious state of humanity
in his piece is about the subject from his childhood
history. Some examples of that are his pieces “La
Malinche” (1949), “Carlota” (1972) and “The
Pavane of the Moor” (1949). According to modern
dance history, he’s renowned for his title as the
finest male dancer of the moment by the New York
times.
Martha Graham (1894 - 1991, U.S.A.)

Martha Graham is considered by many to be the 20th century's most


important dancer and the mother of modern dance.
She develops her training technique involving few principles:- Focus on the
‘center’ of the body. Coordination between breathing and movements.
Relationship with the floor and alternation between two movement intentions:
“contraction and release”. She also created original choreograph focused on
movement of pelvis as the zone of expression of feminine libido. Her works
reflects the search for identity of American at that point of time.
Alvin Ailey (1931 - 1989, U.S.A.)

Alvin Ailey also known as ‘black modern dance’. What makes him
different is that his work are mostly focus on the expression of black
people’s feelings at that point of time. His piece “Revelations”
(1960) is considered a master piece in terms of lyricism, ethnic
music, techniques, spirituality and revolutionary ambience. Even his
choreograph are based on black culture aspects, over the time he
opened his company to multi-ethnic possibilities which placed him in
the history
Alwin Nikolaïs (1910 – 1993, U.S.A.)

Designer, composer and choreographer, Nikolaïs is one of the most popular


modern dance artists around the world though his expression more towards
abstractions. His pieces is where body movement has the same impact as
optical effects, paintings, collages, projections and other scenic illusions. His
principle also include:- Any point in the body can be the ‘center for movement’.
Human being is just another element among the moving universe. Body
undergoes several metamorphoses and becomes abstract. Improvisation and
composition are part of the technical training. The student is responsible of
exploring his own body. He is also renowned for his amazing teaching skills and
focus to develop capacity of invention in his students.
The Basic Natural Movements:

Modern dance movement are based on basic locomotor and non-locomotor steps and skills. It is the
application and the incorporation of the meaning of movement that turns the simple movement to
dance movements.
1. Locomotor movements - are those that move the body in space in any direction with the feet as the moving
base.
Examples: walking, running, jumping, hopping, skipping, leaping, galloping and
sliding

2. Non-locomotor - are those in which various parts of the body move in space with a fixed base. The base may
be standing, kneeling, sitting or lying.

Non-locomotor movements:
1. Flexion--- Bending or shortening of a body part occurring at a joint.
2. Extension—Turning, twisting or circling
3. Pendular---- Swinging/ swaying arms forward, backward or sideward.
4. Percussive—Striking and hitting: pushing and pulling.
5. Vibratory----- Shaking and beating.
6. Sustained---- A slow, smooth flowing movement with a balance of movement throughout the entire series.
7. Suspended--- A sharp movement followed by a series of slow or prolonged movements until a peak is reached.
BASIC DANCE STEPS AND SKILLS IN MODERN DANCE

 Dance walk – any even rhythm pattern an alternate transfer


of weight occurs from one foot to the other. Walks help
maintain body weight ready for immediate action. There are
different directions to which dance walks are done.
a.Forward
b.Backward
c.Sideward (grapevine action)
 Run – an even rhythm pattern in which there is an alternate
transference of weight from one foot to the other. It is faster
than a walk and requires more energy. A smooth run should
be done with toes reaching forward so that the ball of the foot
strikes the floor first, followed by the heel, to absorb shock. Its
many uses in dance include covering distance, changing
direction, gaining momentum for another movement or gaining
height.
 Gallop – this is two steps performed in uneven rhythm 1 & 2/
1 & 2/, long-short, long-short. One foot always maintains the
lead.
Chassé – uneven rhythm with counts 1 & 2 / 1 &/ with one foot
maintaining the lead. It is smoother in quality than the gallop,
the slide retains other of its features. Emphasis is placed on
gliding action of the leading foot, following foot cuts under, body
weight is lifted sharply as this take place in either through third
or fourth position.
Falling – falling action can be aesthetically breathtaking when
performed quickly and with control. It can be done in any
directions.
 Rolls

a. Log rolls – from a supine lying position, with arms extended overhead
and feet and ankles extended, revolve entire body to end in prone
lying position. Repeat as many times as desired.

b. Forward roll – starting with a kneeling position, sitting on heels, body


curled forwards, head turned one side elbows in the center of the
body. Make a complete body roll in the direction opposite to turned
position of head. To end in starting position.

c. Backward roll – begins supine lying, arms at the side of the body.
Contract abdomen and hinge legs up and backward. Aim knees
slightly to the R shoulder and turn head to left. End on knees or on
feet in a squat.
Turns – this involves establishing an axis within the body,
through the body’s point of contact with the floor. It is vital to
learn how to spot –in order to execute the turns efficiently and
smoothly. Spotting is an attempt to trick the eye and inner ear
balance receptors into thinking one has not turned at all. This is
done by selecting a spot at the eye head to tilt, usually ¼ of
turn. The head the flips around to focus on the spot again
before the body has completed its turning action. In turning, the
head is last to leave and first to arrive.
Elements of Modern Dance

1. Body – body is the instrument used by the artist


2. Action – the movements that the body perform
3. Space – refers to the area where the dancers performs,
describes how dancers maximizes the use of spaces
- Variation of movement
4. Time – refers to timing of every movement, where accordance
to the rhythm of music and to synchronized with the action of the
dancers
5. Energy – refers to the force of an action that bring character to
the movement.
Physical Benefits:

Improves cardiovascular fitness: Modern dance is a high-energy


form of exercise that gets the heart pumping and increases
cardiovascular endurance.
Enhances flexibility and balance: The fluid and expressive
movements of modern dance require a high degree of flexibility
and balance, which can be improved through regular practice.
Builds muscle strength: The repetitive movements and turns in
modern dance can help to build muscle strength in the legs,
core, and arms.
Helps to maintain a healthy weight: Modern dance is a full-body
workout that can burn calories and promote weight loss.
Mental and Emotional Benefits:

 Boosts self-confidence: Modern dance allows for self-expression


and encourages dancers to let go of inhibitions, which can boost
self-confidence.
 Provides stress relief: The physical and creative outlets provided
by modern dance can help to reduce stress and tension.
 Enhances emotional expression: The emotional expressiveness
of modern dance can help individuals to better understand and
express their emotions.
 Improves focus and concentration: The intricate movements and
choreography of modern dance require concentration and focus,
which can improve cognitive function.
Contemporary dance
 is a style of expressive dance that combines elements of several
dance genres including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet.
Contemporary dancers strive to connect the mind and the body
through fluid dance movements.
 The term "contemporary" is somewhat misleading: it describes a
genre that developed during the mid-20th century and is still very
popular today. Contemporary dance stresses versatility
andimprovisation, unlike the strict, structured nature of
ballet.Contemporary dancers focus on floor work, using gravity to
pull them down to the floor. This dance genre is often done in
bare feet. Contemporary dance can be performed to many
different styles of music.
Contemporary Dance Techniques:
1. Release Technique - In dance, release technique is any of various dance
techniques that focus on breathing, muscle relaxation, anatomical considerations, and the
use of gravity and momentum to facilitate efficient movement. It can be found
in modern and postmodern dance, and has been influenced by the work of modern dance
pioneers, therapeutic movement techniques such as Feldenkrais and Alexander Technique,
and yoga and martial arts.

2. Body - Mind Centering - the basic inner peace of the body and mind. a good example is
doing yoga routines.

3. Contact Improvisation - in this technique, the dancers focuses in sensing a partner


while having a dramatic movement.

4. Flying Low - all the movements of the dancers has connections to the environment even
on the floor or by standing.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MODERN AND
CONTEMPORARY DANCE

While modern and contemporary dance share some


similarities, there are several key differences between the
two styles. These include:
KEY DIFFERENCES:

 Technique: Modern dance emphasizes natural alignment and freedom of


movement, while contemporary dance incorporates a wider range of
techniques and styles, including ballet and jazz.

 Emotion: Modern dance emphasizes expression of emotion, while


contemporary dance often focuses on athleticism and technical precision.

 Choreography: Modern dance often features improvisation and a lack of


structure, while contemporary dance typically incorporates more structured
choreography and complex partnering work.

 Movement style: Modern dance often features irregular and asymmetrical


movements, while contemporary dance emphasizes fluidity and athleticism.
 Modern dance is a dance style that focuses on a dancer's own
interpretations instead of structured steps, as in traditional
ballet dancing.

 while comtemporary dance focuses on emotion, individual


expression, and storytelling through fluid, organic movements.
ALICE GARCIA REYES (born October 14, 1942)

 Known as “ The Mother of Contemporary Dance” and has


become a significant part of the Philippine danceparlance. As a
Filipina dancer, choreographer, teacher, director and producer,
she has made a lasngimpact on the development and
promoon of contemporary dance in the Philippines. Her dance
legacyis evident in the dance companies, teachers,
choreographers and the excing Filipino modern
dancerepertoire of our country today.

 National Artist for dance (1970)


There are 5 main techniques used in Contemporary
Dance:
1. Cunningham
2. Graham
3. Limon
4. Release
5. Improvisation
Cunningham
• named after Merce Cunningham,
an American dancer and choreo-
grapher who was at the forefront
of American modern dance for
more than 50 years.
• This style focused on the architecture of the body in
space, rhythm and articulation.
• Cunningham uses the idea of the body's own "line of
energy" to promote easy, natural movement.
Graham
• named after Martha Graham, an
American modern dancer and
choreographer.
• This style focuses on the use of
contraction, release, fall and recovery.
• Graham technique is characterised by floor work and the
use of abdominal and pelvic contractions. The style is
very grounded and the technique visibly contrary to the
sylphlike, airborne ideals of ballet.
Limon
• named after Jose Limon, a
dancer and choreographer.
• Involves exploring the use of
energy in relation to gravity and
working with weight in terms
of fall, rebound, recovery and suspension.
• Limon technique uses the feeling of weight and "heavy
energy" in the body, and movement is instigated using
breath to lift, and swings through the body to create and
halt movement.
Release
• Placing emphasis on minimising tension in the search for clarity
and fluidity and efficient use of energy and breath.

• A bit like it sounds - in Release technique, we release through the


joints and muscles to create ease of movement, releasing the
breath to aid the release of the body. A great relaxation
technique as well as a dance style.
Improvisation
• Focuses on the investigation of movement and its relation to
performance. Development of individual movement material is
facilitated through a variety of creative explorations.

• Contact improvisation describes a duet dance form


characterised by weight exchange, fluid movement and touch.
Partners improvise using the natural movement of the body.
Health Benefits involved in
Contemporary Dance
Yes, absolutely. Contemporary Dance is Popular for its benefits of Mind-
Body Co-ordination.

• Better coordination, agility, flexibility and body balance


• Improved balance and spatial awareness.
• Increased physical confidence.
• Improved mental functioning.
• Improved general and psychological well-being.
• Greater self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Better social skills.
ELEMENTS OF CONTEMPORARY DANCE

 THEME – most basic element of a dance.


 DESIGN – pattern of movement in time and space
 MOVEMENT – the bodily actions of the dancer that incudes his
steps
 TECHNIQUE- the skill of movement executed by the dancer
 MUSIC – the auditory background to which a dancer moves
 COSTUME and BODY PARAPHERLANIA- properties worn by the dancer
that help reflect the message, customs and beliefs.
 CHOREOGRAPHY – the figures and steps in dancing that enable the
dancers to perform in an organized manner
 SCENERY – the background or setting where the dance is performed to
make it more realistic and enriching.
Advantages:
Self Expression- They can find ways to express themselves,
even when words aren’t sufficient
Physical Benefits- Students build muscle strength, find
their balance, improve agility, and increase their
flexibility.
Creative Thinking-Dancers visualize new concepts or
stories and come up with their own moves for
performances.
Stress Reduction-expected to look perfect, be judged,
and criticized
Disadvantages
expected to look perfect, be judged, and criticized
have to be prepared to give your full attention and
energy to this dance
risk of injury is great due to the amount of time in
practicing
very difficult to master the perfect fluidity, grace,
interpretive skills and control over your body
BALLROOM
DANCES
History of ballroom dances
• Ballroom dancing is a kind of social dancing in which two people
dance as partners. It encourages social interaction between dance
partners.
• Ballroom dancing is originated in England in the 18th and 19th
century performed by the upper and elite classes of society in balls
and parties.
• It was started in the United States at the time of World War I.
• The term ballroom dancing is derived from the word ‘ball’, from the
Latin word “Ballare” meaning ‘to dance’.
• The word ‘ballroom’(bol’room) refers to a room for dancing,
especially one with a polished floor.
BALLROOM DANCES
Also known as “Partner Dancing”
DANCE SPORT (or Competitive Dancing)
helped revive interest in ballroom dancing.

19th century
Ballroom Dancing became an integral part of
Physical Education in American public and in
private schools.
There are many different types of ballroom dancing,
with the main two being Smooth style and
Latin/Rhythm style.
The smooth style dances
are performed with the
couple dancing over the
entire dance floor. This
type of dancing includes
the Quickstep, Viennese
Waltz, the Tango, the
Waltz, and the Foxtrot.
The energetic Latin style of dance
usually keeps the couple in one spot
on the dance floor. This style includes
the Rumba, Cha Cha, the Swing,
Disco, and the Samba
TYPES OF BALLROOM DANCES
WALTZ
From the German word “WALZEN”, which means “to roll” or “to
turn”.
First popularized in Vienna, Austria
Popularly known as the “WELLER” or “SPINNER”.
It is performed fashionably by couples or partners in fast sliding or
gliding movements.
It was the first time men and women were seen holding each
other “so closely that their faces touched” (Montaigne,1580)
It is danced in CLOSED-HOLD POSITION
Romantic melodies are in time.
It is characterized by its graceful movements and gracious
turning.
CHA CHA CHA

A Latin dance which originated in Cuba.


It is a fun, flirtatious and energetic dance with lots of
hip movements and fancy foot work.
It is actually derived from Mambo.
Dance in 4/4 time signature.
“slow-slow-quick-quick-slow”/ “2-3-4 and 1”
TANGO
“BAILE CON CORTE” – to dance with many dramatic
or artistic poses.
First performed as a solo dance by a woman in 19th
century.
“Andalusian Tango” – use of castanets.
At first, it was considered immoral.
Originated within the lower classes of the”Barrio
de la Ranas” (Buenos Aires).
Popularized in New York during 1910-1911
Styles:
 ARGENTINE TANGO – Close Embrace where
the lead and follow connected chest- to-chest.

 TANGO – connected in upper thigh or hip


area.

 AMERICAN TANGO – combination of


Argentine and International Tango
JIVE
Also known in recent years as “Swing”, is a lively,
energetic dance combining quick footwork and graceful
arm movements with swirls and dips.
One evening in 1927, SHORTZ GEORGE SNOWDEN
named it “LINDY HOP”.
Mid-1930s, it was renamed “JITTERBUG”.
LAURÉ HAILE
1940s, made the first documentation of the dance and
named it “WESTERN SWING”
The Swing
 Swing dances can be performed in a variety of ways.
They include such dances as the Lindy Hop, Jitterbug,
and Boogie Woogie. The origin dates back to the
1920s and 1930s. These dances are performed by
using jumps, kicks, and energetic moves.
MAMBO

The Mambo is one of the most


sensual and emotional Latin American
ballroom dances. Swaying hip
movements, facial expressions, arm
movements and holds all add to the
sensuality of the dance.
PASO DOBLE

The Paso Doble is one of the liveliest


ballroom dances, originating in southern
France. It is modeled after the sound,
drama, and movement of the Spanish
bullfight.
RUMBA

The Rumba is considered by many


to be the most romantic and
sensual of all Latin ballroom
dances. It is often referred to as the
"Grandfather of the Latin dances."
SAMBA

Possibly the most popular of all


Brazilian ballroom dances, the Samba
is popular with young people as well
as older generations. The Samba can
be performed solo or with a partner.
Standard costume
latin costume
Dance shoes
• Appropriate shoes is
important in ballroom
dancing, dancers can
benefit from having the
correct footwear when
dancing.
• Support and comfortable
fit are the main
requirements when
dancing.
Dance positions used in
ballroom
CLOSED POSITION (BALLROOM)

• The closed position in the smooth


ballroom dancing is the most
basic and common position used
to move around the dance floor.
Dance positions used in
ballroom
OPEN FACING POSITION

• Is any position where partners facing each


other, apart but within arms’ reach.
• Lead and follow are achieved through the
use of various hand connections, such as
the two-hand hold as shown in the
picture.
Dance positions used in
ballroom
OUTSIDE PARTNER (RIGHT)

• The Right Outside Partner Position is a


variation of the Closed Position where
the tracks of the feet are offset to allow
one partner to move toward the outside
of the other partner’s right leg.
Dance positions used in
ballroom
PROMENADE POSITION

• The Promenade Position is a “V” –


shaped dance position with man’s left
side and lady’s right side slightly open.
• The direction of travel is towards the
open side.
• partners stand side by side, both facing
on the same direction.Girl at R of
partner. The hand crossed in front, R
hands joined over L.
Dance positions used in
ballroom
FAN POSITION
• is an alternative to Open
Facing Position, whereby man
and lady are positioned
perpendicular to each other
with a left or right hand hold.
• It is specific to the Rumba
and Cha Cha figure bearing
the same time.
Physical Benefits:
• Improved cardiovascular fitness: Ballroom dancing provides an excellent cardiovascular
workout, helping to improve heart health, stamina, and endurance.
• Increased muscle strength and tone: The various movements and techniques
involved in ballroom dancing engage and strengthen different muscle groups, resulting in a more
toned and defined physique.
• Enhanced flexibility and balance: Ballroom dancing requires dancers to perform a
range of motions, which helps to increase flexibility and improve balance and coordination.
• Weight management: As a form of aerobic exercise, ballroom dancing can contribute to
weight loss or maintenance by burning calories and increasing metabolism.

• Improved posture and body awareness: Ballroom dancing encourages


proper posture and body alignment, leading to a more graceful and confident presence both on
and off the dance floor.
Mental Benefits:
• Stress relief: Dancing provides a fun and enjoyable outlet for releasing
stress, allowing participants to unwind and forget their daily worries.
• Cognitive function: Ballroom dancing requires mental focus,
concentration, and memorization, which helps to sharpen cognitive abilities
and may reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
• Boosts self-confidence and self-esteem: As dancers progress
and master new skills, they often experience increased self-confidence
and a greater sense of accomplishment.
• Emotional expression: Ballroom dancing offers a creative outlet for
expressing emotions and interpreting music through movement, fostering
emotional well-being and personal growth.
• Mindfulness: The focus required in ballroom dancing can promote a
state of mindfulness, allowing dancers to be present in the moment and
fully engaged in the activity.
Social Benefits:
• Improved social skills: Ballroom dancing requires partner communication and
collaboration, helping individuals to develop better social skills and become more
comfortable interacting with others.
• Expanding social circle: Participating in ballroom dance classes and events
provides opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and expand one's
social network.
• Sense of community: The ballroom dance community is generally welcoming
and supportive, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its
members.
• Opportunities for connection: Dancing with a partner can create a unique
bond and connection, strengthening relationships and fostering trust and
understanding between partners.
• Enhances teamwork: Learning and performing a ballroom dance routine with
a partner or a group requires cooperation, coordination, and mutual support,
promoting teamwork and collaboration skills.

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