“Human beings are born with the instinct to express themselves through movement. Even before he could communicate with words, primitive man was dancing to the beat of his own heart.” – Bob Fosse
Contemporary dance developed in the early 20th century as a results of artists wishing to break free from the constrainst and rigidity of classical ballet. It soon blossomed and evolved, becomming very popular, as it gave the dancer and choreographer the opportunity to explore movement using natural lines, energy and form.
Today, contemporary dance encompasses a broad range of techniques and styles, it can be danced to any style of music and all movements are free to express an emotion or tell a story using the language of movement. This freedom results in unique choreography that draws on harnessing natural energy and momentum, while utilising the breath to provide the dancer with the tools to create the desired dynamic.
Unlike most dance forms, contemporary uses the body’s natural alignment and is therefore accessible to beginners. At the same time, experienced dancers gain strength and stability while being able to push new boundaries and explore new styles of movement, developing a greater connection to the music and freedom of expression through the use of their body.
“We should consider every day lost during which we have not danced at least once.” – Friedrich Nietzsche