Contemporary Dance

Identification of key figures in the development of 20th-21st century contemporary choreographic practice. Theoretical, analytical and practical methodologies will be explored along with dance’s interdisciplinary connections. In this course students will undertake a comprehensive examination of the art form of contemporary dance both theoretically and practically. They will explore the ideas and choreographic processes of key figures throughout the development of contemporary dance; develop their own artistic expression and viewpoint; learn to critically analyze and evaluate a dance; and further connections between the arts, society and their own personal artistic and study interests. Students will:

• Gain an understanding of the origins of dance and ritual
• Gain an understanding of the various categories of art/dance history from Romanticism to modernism, post-modernism and more
• Identify major figures throughout the development of contemporary dance, both locally and internationally, and explore threads of choreographic, historical and social connections
• Gain experience in reflection and analysis and evaluation of choreography
• Develop an appreciation of choreography as an art form and explore a variety of choreographic processes
• Choreograph a solo and a site-specific dance, applying an understanding of choreographic principles and approaches