Modern dance is a broad genre of western concert or theatrical dance that primarily arose out of Europe and the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was developed as a rejection of classical ballet and as a way to express social concerns like socioeconomic and cultural factors. Here are some key features of modern dance:
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Movement Vocabulary: Modern dance disregards ballets strict movement vocabulary and instead focuses on free and natural movements.
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Whole Body Involvement: Modern dance involves the whole body, including the torso, shoulders, head, arms, hands, and even fingers.
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Creative Expression: Modern dance is not just an intellectual and physical endeavor, but a creative one as well.
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Abstract Movements: Modern dance uses abstract movements to portray ideas, feelings, and emotions.
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Contemporary Form: Modern dance is a contemporary form of dance.
Modern dance may look jazz-like, balletic, lyrical, or totally different, creating its style for the mood being explored. It is now a recognizable art form that stands on its own.