| Description |
This thesis examines a disjunction, or marked contrast, between dance training encompassing diverse and multiple approaches and the increasingly narrow representations of modern dance in technique and choreography. If modern dance is to be understood as deriving from a belief that dance can constitute a form of individual, artistic expression, then its over reliance on limited forms must be called into question. The critical and creative examination, based on creative and theoretical research presented herein, gives way to a central argument: If it is to evolve, and better reflect the complexities of modern life, contemporary dance must return to its earlier emphasis on personal and boundless artistic expression. This paper presents a compositional method driven by dancers' eclectic training in the choreographic process. In doing so, creative and theoretical research is utilized to contend that somatic practice and improvisation combined with multiple dance techniques yields a more inclusive, relevant, and vital vision for contemporary dance. |
