SH1689

Contemporary Dance

I. Origins of Contemporary Dance

In the 1980s, contemporary dance referred to the movement of new dancers who did not want
to follow strict classical ballet and lyrical dance forms but instead wanted to explore the area
of revolutionary unconventional movements that were gathered from all dance styles of the
world. Contemporary dance, therefore, does not use fixed moves and instead try to develop
totally new forms and dynamics, such as quick oppositional moves, shifting alignments,
expressions of raw emotions, systematic breathing, dancing moves performed in non-standing
positions like lying on the floor, and in general trying to find the absolute limits of our human
form and physique.
The origins of this popular dance movement can be traced to several influential dance masters
such as Isadora Duncan, Martha Graham, and Merce Cunningham. They all wanted to show
to the world that contemporary dancers should embrace freedom, ignore old dance
conventions, and explore the limits of the human body and visual expression of feelings. Also,
one of the precursors to the contemporary dance can be found in the millennia's old techniques
of Zen Buddhism and Indian Health Yoga, which incorporates various dancing philosophies
that closely follow the principles of contemporary dance.
II. Contemporary Dance Techniques
A. Release Technique
This dancing technique teaches to release unnecessary tensions used while moving. It is
associated with therapeutic movement researches that come or make use of medical
knowledge. It cares about enhancing of the self-awareness from which movement is
executed. Rather than just following physical exercises, it proposes a continuous re-
education of the mind and body. It allows the dancer to accomplish a healthy practice that
promotes general well-being.
B. Bonnie bridge Cohen’s BMC (Body-Mind Centering)
Contemporary dancing provides emphasis in breathing, body alignment, mental control,
and relaxation. Learning to breathe properly, adequate use of tension, and conducting the
minds while dancing liberates the dancers from an exhaustion. Basic yoga routines are
good examples of this technique.
C. Contact Improvisation
This way of dancing is considered a technique, since the goals of its practice are acquired
with repetition in time, and it works over physical skills, too. It liberates the dancer from
the concern of the outward appearance of movement. Instead of giving importance to its
outside visual aspect, this practice focusses in sensing a partner while having a body
dialogue.
D. Flying Low
This is a technique where the dancers connect their entire body with the environment such
as air, floor, and the energy of other, forming an interconnection by just standing.

References:
Contemporary dance techniques. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.contemporary-dance.org/contemporary-dance-techniques.html
Contemporary dance history. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.contemporary-dance.org/contemporary-dance-history.html

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