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Dance exists only when the performer executes movements in time and space,
in conjunction with music, stage sets, and props.
Dance is called to be the mother of arts. It is said to be the oldest form of arts. In the
ancient times, the dramas started from a mere dance. In the Indian Civilization, the
dance is an inclusion to the drama. The Nayashastra means the art of dance. The
beginnings of music are accompanied together with dance. Dance can be a recreation
and a form of expression. The dance may utter a story and may set a mood.
Purpose of Dancing
In many societies, dancing has been used in worship. Throughout history,
dancing has also played a role in courtship. In many cases, it serves many ways for a
man and woman to become acquainted before they marry. Children dance because of
the joy they feel. Their bodies will not remain quiet unless they make some
rhythmical movements. In the ancient, dance is considered with magical powers that
shall bring rain. Some dance to bring victory or companionship. There are those who
dance to find relief from the monotony of having the same activity in their life. Most
people dance to have fun or to entertain other. For those who treat dance as an art, the
dance reaches its most beautiful form. They dance to give beauty and inspiration to
others.
Basic purpose of dance – religious, magical, commemorative, ceremonisl,
recreational, or entertainment purposes.
Elements of Dance
1. Content – uses bodily movements and gestures to achieve its intentions
2. Movement – the means by which the dancers can externalize an inner state or
condition and thus communicate with an audience.
3. Music – movements and gestures can either be an interpretation of the
emotional content of the music.
- may function simply as an aural background to set the mood for the
audience and more importantly as rhythmic accompaniment to the
movement of the dancers.
4. Spectacle – scenery and costumes play an important role in the creation of a
spell. Scenery is the background or place of the dance. Costume is attire of the
dancers. Props are sometimes used to execute the body movements well and
enhance the excitement of the dance.
5. Theme – it tell us what the dance is trying to convey. It has something to do
with the message of the dance.
6. Design – it refers to the planned organization or pattern of movement.
7. Technique – it is the skills in executing movement.
8. Choreography – the organized and graceful flow and style of the dance.
Kinds of Dancing
1. Ethnologic Dance – It is a dance that is ethnic to specific race or ethnic group.
It includes folk dancing because folk dances are often derived from ethnic
dances. It includes folk dancing because folk dances are often derived from
ethnic dances. These dances are associated with national and cultural groups.
Banga – it literally mean clay pot, used as water for food containers.
These claypots are balanced on the head of Igorot women as they wind up and
down the mountain trail.
3. Theatrical or Spectacular Dance – This kind of dance are performed for the
entertainment of spectators.
Example:
Ballet – It is formalized type of dance which has its origin in the royal
course of the middle ages. The term ballet refers to a series of solo and
concerted dances in which poses and steps are combined with light flowing
figures, dramatic story, theme, or atmosphere.
Modern dance – It is characterized as a natural and free. It does not
stick to conventions, and has varied styles of movements, usually based on
current trend. It has also been called expressional dance. This is pioneered by
Isadora Duncan. The themes of modern dances are taken from the ups and
downs of real life in its tragic, as well as its humorous aspects.
4. Disco Dance – There is no strict pattern of dance. The only requirement of the
dance is to be on the right tempo of the music.