Modern Dance
Based on the idea of free artistic expression for the individual, Modern dance was originated in U.S in the early 20th century as a revolt against the strict rules of classical ballet. Modern dance is a dance style that centers on a dancer's own interpretations instead of structured steps, as in traditional ballet dancing. Modern dancers reject the limitations of classical ballet and favor movements derived from the expression of their inner feelings. During the 1900's, European dancers began rebelling against the rigid rules of classical ballet. Turning against the structured techniques, costumes and shoes of ballet, these dancers preferred a more relaxed, free style of dancing. Modern dance pioneers often danced in bare feet and revealing costumes. In the United States, several dance pioneers paved the way for American modern dance, including the legendary Martha Graham.
Modern dance encourages dancers to use their emotions and moods to design their own steps and routines. It is not unusual for dancers to invent new steps for their routines, instead of following a structured code of technique, as in ballet. Another characteristic of modern dance in opposition to ballet is the deliberate use of gravity. Whereas classical ballet dancers strive to be light and airy on their feet, modern dancers often use their body weight to enhance movement. This type of dancer rejects the classical ballet stance of an upright, erect body, often opting instead for deliberate falls to the floor.
The pioneers of modern dance in America can be attributed to Loie Fuller, Isadora Duncan, Ruth St, Dennis, Martha Graham, Ted Shawn and Maude Allan. Isadora Duncan was a predecessor of modern dance and she virtually single-handedly restored dance’s rank among the arts, Martha Graham on the other hand is often regarded as the mother of modern dance.
Modern Dance consist of contemporary, jazz and tap dance. Tap dance is a form of dance in which a tapping sound is produced when metal plates under the shoe hit against the hard surface. Tap dancers are considered to be percussionists because of the fact, that they make sound from the dance.
When there were no registered styles in this world excluding ballet and few other styles Modern dance was such a periodic style of dance which emphasizes more on physical improvisation, varied pioneering techniques, anatomical vocabulary. Geometrical exploration of space points.
The teaching pattern of RSUDC lays a platform for various level of dancers to emphasize more on classical ballet techniques, contemporary and jazz technicalities.
Primary focus lay on Lester Hortons technique, cunninghams methodology of designing pieces, gravity suspensions, contact improvisations, Martha grahams floor work mechanism.
Students are also exposed to evolutionised formats like modern contemporary, street and funk jazz mechanisms apart from modern dancing
Theatre disciplines are taught exclusively in order to improve performance capabilities.