Choreographic innovation

Definition

Choreographic innovation refers to the creation of new and original movement patterns, styles, or concepts in dance, often reflecting cultural, social, or artistic shifts. This concept is significant as it represents how dancers and choreographers push boundaries to explore unique forms of expression, incorporating diverse influences and technologies in their work.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Denishawn School was pivotal in promoting choreographic innovation by emphasizing the exploration of diverse movement styles and cultural influences.
2. Dancers such as Martha Graham and Doris Humphrey, who trained at the Denishawn School, became influential figures known for their innovative contributions to modern dance.
3. The concept of 'total theater' was embraced at the Denishawn School, where dance was seen as an integral part of storytelling and performance art.
4. The Denishawn School's emphasis on education allowed for a generation of choreographers to develop their unique voices, leading to significant advancements in dance during the early 20th century.
5. Choreographic innovation at the Denishawn School often involved collaboration between dancers and musicians, creating a holistic approach to performance that still influences dance today.

Review Questions

• How did the Denishawn School foster an environment conducive to choreographic innovation among its students?
  • The Denishawn School created a supportive environment for choreographic innovation by encouraging students to explore a variety of movement styles and cultural influences. With a focus on personal expression and creative collaboration, students were able to experiment with their own ideas while receiving guidance from influential teachers like Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn. This blend of educational practices promoted an atmosphere where original choreography could flourish.
• In what ways did notable alumni from the Denishawn School contribute to the evolution of choreographic innovation in modern dance?
  • Alumni from the Denishawn School, including Martha Graham and Doris Humphrey, played critical roles in advancing choreographic innovation in modern dance. They introduced new techniques that emphasized emotional expression, narrative storytelling, and the exploration of complex human experiences. Their groundbreaking works challenged traditional notions of dance and inspired future generations of choreographers to embrace their individuality and creativity in their choreography.
• Evaluate the impact of choreographic innovation from the Denishawn School on contemporary dance practices around the world.
  • The impact of choreographic innovation originating from the Denishawn School can be seen in contemporary dance practices today as many choreographers continue to draw inspiration from its teachings. The school's emphasis on blending diverse movement styles and cultural elements has led to the widespread acceptance of fusion dance, allowing for greater artistic freedom. Furthermore, contemporary dancers frequently employ improvisation and collaboration within their processes, reflecting the foundational ideas established at the Denishawn School. This legacy of creative exploration continues to shape the evolution of dance across different cultures globally.

Related terms

Modern Dance: A genre of dance that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a departure from classical ballet's strict forms and an emphasis on personal expression.

Improvization: The spontaneous creation of movement without pre-planned choreography, often used by choreographers to discover new ideas and styles in dance.

Fusion Dance: A blend of different dance styles and techniques, often resulting in innovative choreography that combines elements from various cultural backgrounds.