Federal Dance Project

Definition

The Federal Dance Project was an initiative established in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) to support and promote dance in the United States. It aimed to provide employment for dancers and choreographers while simultaneously increasing public access to dance performances across the country. This program played a crucial role in the development of early American ballet companies and established a foundation for professional dance in the U.S.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Federal Dance Project was part of a broader effort by the WPA to provide work relief during the economic hardships of the Great Depression.
2. It employed numerous dancers, choreographers, and teachers, helping to develop a vibrant dance community across various regions in the U.S.
3. The project created opportunities for local artists to present their work, leading to increased recognition for regional dance companies.
4. It also focused on creating dance works that reflected American culture and themes, contributing to a national identity through performance.
5. The Federal Dance Project set the stage for future government support for the arts, influencing subsequent funding initiatives for dance and other performing arts.

Review Questions

• How did the Federal Dance Project influence the growth of early American ballet companies?
  • The Federal Dance Project significantly contributed to the growth of early American ballet companies by providing essential funding and employment opportunities for dancers and choreographers. Through its initiatives, many regional companies were able to flourish, allowing them to create and perform original works that showcased American themes. This support helped lay a foundation for professional ballet in the U.S., fostering talent that would shape the future of dance in America.
• Evaluate the impact of the Federal Dance Project on public access to dance performances during its operation.
  • The Federal Dance Project greatly improved public access to dance performances by organizing tours and performances in various communities across the country. This initiative brought professional dance to audiences who otherwise might not have had the opportunity to experience live performances. By showcasing diverse styles and works that resonated with American life, the project helped cultivate a broader appreciation for dance as an art form among the general public.
• Analyze how the legacy of the Federal Dance Project continues to influence government arts funding today.
  • The legacy of the Federal Dance Project continues to influence government arts funding today by highlighting the importance of public support for the arts as a means of fostering cultural expression and providing economic relief. The project's success demonstrated how investment in dance and other art forms can stimulate both artistic innovation and community engagement. This historical precedent has paved the way for contemporary funding initiatives such as those provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, which aim to ensure that diverse artistic practices remain accessible to all segments of society.

Related terms

Works Progress Administration (WPA): A New Deal agency that provided jobs and income to millions of unemployed Americans during the Great Depression through various public works projects.

Modern Dance: A style of dance that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a departure from traditional ballet techniques and an emphasis on expressive movement and individual creativity.

Dance Education: A field focused on teaching dance techniques, history, and appreciation, often emphasizing the importance of dance in cultural and artistic expression.