FALL FOR DANCE!

Saturday, November 11th we will be going to see the Fall for Dance performance at City center w 55th street. To prepare for the show, I will be briefing you on the type of dance we will see, and the proper way to enjoy it.

What is Contemporary Dance?

  • Wikipedia says that contemporary dance is popular and developed during the middle portion of the twentieth century. Strongly popular in the US and Europe.
  • about.com says that contemporary dance is an expressive style of dance. It combines modern dance, Jazz, Lyrical dance, and ballet. It is fluid, dancers try to connect body and mind. Contemporary dance emphasizes versatility and improvisation.

Why is Contemporary Dance hard to watch?

  • It’s a pretty abstract form of art
  • Contemporary dance is commonly associated with the question: What the heck was that all about?

How should we watch Contemporary Dance?

  • Forget your definition of dance
  • Have an open mind. Absorb the performance (without judgment… yet)
  • Dance is an expression of mind, just like every other art form.
  • Don’t say: WELL THAT’S NOT DANCE.
  • Turn on your senses. (Like we did at the institute of photography)
    • Take in the lights, sounds, colors, and dancers (of course!)
  • Slow down. Give all your attention to the performance and forget your other responsibilities
  • Don’t work about trying to understand what it was about (yet).

What are the proper manners to use at a Dance Performance?

  • Keep in mind that dancers are also professionals, just like your doctor and your professor; we should treat them with respect.
  • With that said…
    • Refrain from talking during the pieces…
    • Hold your applause until the selections in a set are complete
    • Turn off your ringer
    • Remain seated
  • Show respect to the dancers by using theses good manners and proper concert etiquettes

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