Definition of Modern Dance

Dance is one of the fine arts classical. Through movements and rhythm, the dancers express emotions Y feelings. Each dance or dance is associated with a specific moment. Some of them are part of a ritual, others are a mere pastime and, in most circumstances, this form of expression artistic is oriented to the world of entertainment.

If we talk about dance, this discipline is divided into two main sections: classical dance or ballet or modern dance.

The latter emerged at the beginning of the 20th century as a reaction to the traditional schemes of classical ballet. In general, modern dance is inspired by freedom of movement.

Characteristics of modern dance

The body expression of the dancers is not subject to some structured steps in advance. However, modern dance is the result of the evolution of classical dance.

The techniques used emphasize the natural movements of the body and emphasize the expressiveness of body language.

Among the most used techniques, the Graham technique and the Horton technique stand out. The first is based on contraction and relaxation and has the purpose of transmitting emotions to the viewer. The second is based on the physical resistance of the dancers and the expressiveness of the movements.

The great promoter of this genre was the American dancer and choreographer Isadora Duncan (1877-1927)

Her artistic approach can be summarized in the following points:

1) the break with traditional ballet patterns,

2) body movements inspired by the expressionism and in other avant-garde currents of her time, as well as in classical Greek art,

3) a start scene with the essential elements and therefore minimalist,

4) dancers abandon makeup and classical clothing,

5) the body expression of the dancers does not have to depend on the music,

6) dance movements should express the desire for freedom of the human condition (in this In this sense, for Isadora Duncan dance was a tool to achieve the emancipation of the woman).

The vision of this dancer revolutionized the world of dance and her legacy is evident in her book "The art of dance and other writings."

Photos: Fotolia - master1305

Themes in Modern Dance