Dance theory
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dance theory is a fairly new term used by some music instructors and many modern dance instructors. It is, generally, an off-shoot of music theory, as it is applied to a modern "dancing" society. Consider the application of music theory to the art of dancing.
However, dance theory specifically deals with anatomical movements (such as foot-work, etc.), as well as partner interactions, and their associations to each other and to music in an artistic way. This is very closely tied to the subject of musicality.
Dance theory explores the various nuances between the dance genres and styles, and tries to determine how and why the dance forms, themselves, differ; as well as what those differences say about the dance, the music by which it is danced to, and the culture from which is was borne.
The subject also tries to explain how various dance moves can lead into others, how some dances become fluid and instinctual. Ultimately, we are concerned with how and why making certain dance moves during certain dances, in certain styles, to certain music and musical cues, and in a certain cultural presence, will naturally "feel right," while in other situations the same dance move may "feel wrong."
It is all about a natural and artistic expression through the body and the medium of dance. An analogy would be "music theory is to an instrument as dance theory is to the human body." Or, more vaguely, "music theory is to a musician as dance theory is to a dancer."
Just as a skilled pianist can move an audience with natural, creative, artistic and emotionally-driven music, a skilled and natural dancer has, by nature, a firm grasp on dance theory.
Consider the attempt to reduce the beauty of dance to a set of well-reasoned rules or guidelines that explain the art. Dance is an art in that it is beautiful, creative, never the same, non-repeatable, and emotionally tied to the music, the surroundings, and the dancers partner. Any dancer will admit to its artistry. Yet, through all its artistry, all dancers can also admit that some things simply do not work well, don't feel natural, and simply don't feel "right" in some situations. The question is "why?" and the answer is the basis for the study and the theory.
Dance theory is only theory, and that is all it can ever be. There are no true rules or laws to the art of dancing, nor to any other form of authentic creativity. But there are concepts and points to ponder. Dance theory is really only a philosophical, or rather spiritual realization of an individuals connection to music.
