What is contemporary dance?

Contemporary dance is a broad genre encompassing a wide range of styles and techniques, making it difficult to define definitively. However, some key characteristics help to distinguish it:

Key Characteristics:

• Fusion of Techniques: It's a melting pot, drawing inspiration and techniques from ballet, modern dance, jazz, and even other movement forms like martial arts or yoga. There's no single "correct" way to perform contemporary dance.
• Emphasis on Expression and Emotion: Unlike some more structured styles, contemporary dance prioritizes the conveyance of feelings, ideas, and stories through movement. It often explores complex themes and human experiences.
• Floor Work: Often utilizes the floor as an integral part of the choreography, showcasing gravity and fluidity.
• Improvisation: A significant element in many contemporary pieces, allowing for spontaneity and personal interpretation.
• Flexibility and Release Technique: Often prioritizes flexibility and the controlled release of tension in the body, contrasting with the more rigid lines of classical ballet.
• Contemporary Music: Frequently utilizes a wide array of musical styles, from classical to electronic to world music, depending on the choreography’s themes and intent.
• Modern Costuming: Clothing choices often reflect the style of the piece; it can be minimalist, elaborate, or anything in between, with functionality and expression being key considerations.

Distinguishing it from other dance forms:

• Ballet: While ballet informs some contemporary techniques, contemporary dance is less concerned with strict form and pointe work, embracing a more natural and expressive movement vocabulary.
• Modern Dance: Contemporary dance builds upon the foundational principles of modern dance (like Martha Graham's contraction and release), but contemporary dance has evolved to be even more eclectic and diverse.
• Jazz: While sharing some rhythmic elements, contemporary dance distinguishes itself through its focus on emotional expression and less emphasis on strict jazz technique.

Notable Choreographers and Companies:

Many choreographers have shaped the evolution of contemporary dance, including names like William Forsythe, Merce Cunningham (though considered a modern dance pioneer, his influence is huge), Pina Bausch, Jiří Kylián, and Ohad Naharin. Numerous renowned dance companies worldwide specialize in contemporary dance, such as Nederlands Dans Theater, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (while often rooted in African-American traditions, they incorporate contemporary styles), and Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch.

In summary: Contemporary dance is a dynamic and ever-evolving art form, characterized by its versatility, emotional depth, and creative freedom. It's a constantly shifting landscape reflecting the diverse artistic expressions of our time.