American Tours

Definition

American tours refer to the practice of traveling performances by dance companies and individual dancers across various regions in the United States. These tours played a crucial role in the dissemination of new dance forms and styles, contributing to the cultural exchange and evolution of American dance, especially during the early 20th century when artists sought to break away from traditional European influences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Isadora Duncan, a pioneering figure in modern dance, utilized American tours to promote her philosophy of free dance, which emphasized natural movement and emotional expression.
2. These tours often featured performances in urban centers as well as smaller towns, bringing innovative dance styles to wider audiences and influencing local dance communities.
3. American tours helped to establish a national identity for American dance by highlighting diverse cultural influences and fostering collaboration between dancers from different backgrounds.
4. Duncan's tours faced both admiration and criticism, reflecting the tension between traditional views of dance and the emerging modern sensibility.
5. The success of American tours paved the way for future generations of dancers and choreographers to travel extensively, contributing to the growth and evolution of American dance on a global scale.

Review Questions

• How did American tours contribute to the evolution of dance in the United States?
  • American tours significantly influenced the evolution of dance by allowing performers to share new styles and philosophies across diverse regions. This helped bridge gaps between urban and rural audiences, fostering a greater appreciation for innovative forms such as modern dance. The exposure gained through these tours enabled artists to challenge existing norms and inspire local communities to embrace more expressive forms of movement.
• Discuss the impact of Isadora Duncan's philosophy on free dance during her American tours.
  • Isadora Duncan's philosophy on free dance was revolutionary and had a profound impact during her American tours. She advocated for natural movement that reflected genuine emotions rather than adhering strictly to classical techniques. This approach challenged conventional ideas about what dance should be, inspiring many dancers to pursue individuality in their work. Duncan’s performances showcased this philosophy, which helped popularize modern dance as an expressive art form across the nation.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of early American tours on contemporary dance practices and performance opportunities in the U.S.
  • The early American tours laid a foundational framework for contemporary dance practices by establishing national networks among artists and promoting collaboration across various styles. These tours created opportunities for dancers to showcase their work in diverse settings, fostering a rich tapestry of artistic expression that continues today. The legacy of these tours can be seen in how modern dance companies now tour nationally and internationally, expanding their reach while engaging with a variety of cultural influences and audiences.

Related terms

Vaudeville: A theatrical variety show popular in the United States from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, featuring a mix of specialty acts including dancers, musicians, and comedians.

Modern Dance: A genre of concert dance that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a rebellion against classical ballet, emphasizing creative expression and individualism.

Choreography: The art of creating and arranging dance movements and sequences for performance, which became increasingly important during American tours as choreographers sought to showcase innovative works.