Jazz dance

Definition

Jazz dance is a lively and energetic form of dance that incorporates elements of African American vernacular dance, ballet, and modern dance. This style is characterized by its improvisation, syncopated rhythms, and a strong focus on individual expression, making it integral to both performance and character portrayal. It plays a significant role in enhancing physicality and movement within character creation while also being a defining aspect of the performance styles that emerged during the Golden Age of musical theater.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jazz dance evolved in the early 20th century, influenced by African American music and dance traditions, particularly during the Harlem Renaissance.
2. Improvisation is a key component of jazz dance, allowing dancers to express their individuality and connect with the music in unique ways.
3. In musical theater, jazz dance often conveys character emotions and enhances storytelling through dynamic movement and rhythm.
4. Many famous musicals from the Golden Age featured jazz dance prominently, showcasing its energetic style in numbers like 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'Chicago.'
5. Jazz dance continues to evolve today, blending with other styles like hip-hop and contemporary dance while retaining its core characteristics.

Review Questions

• How does jazz dance contribute to the physicality and movement in character creation within performance?
  • Jazz dance enhances physicality by allowing performers to embody their characters through expressive movements and rhythms. Dancers use improvisation to infuse their unique style into performances, creating a connection between the character's emotions and physical actions. This approach helps portray the character more authentically on stage, allowing audiences to engage with the story on a deeper level.
• What are the key characteristics of jazz dance that distinguish it from other dance styles, particularly in the context of the Golden Age of musical theater?
  • Jazz dance is distinguished by its energetic movements, syncopated rhythms, and emphasis on individual expression. During the Golden Age of musical theater, these characteristics were utilized to create vibrant and memorable performance numbers. The integration of jazz elements allowed choreographers to craft dynamic routines that captured audiences' attention and reflected the cultural shifts happening at that time.
• Evaluate the impact of jazz dance on modern musical theater performance styles and how it has influenced contemporary choreography.
  • Jazz dance has significantly shaped modern musical theater performance styles by introducing elements of improvisation and personal expression that continue to be integral today. Its rhythmic complexities and emphasis on individual flair have influenced contemporary choreography, leading to hybrid styles that incorporate various dance forms. This evolution demonstrates how jazz remains a foundational element in theater productions while inspiring new generations of dancers and choreographers to innovate within the art form.

Related terms

Swing Dance: A group of partner dances originating in the 1920s that are characterized by lively movements, improvisation, and an upbeat tempo.

Fosse Style: A unique jazz dance style developed by choreographer Bob Fosse, known for its distinctive body isolations, stylized movements, and use of props.

Jazz Hands: A common gesture in jazz dance where the dancer extends their fingers while raising their hands to create a dynamic visual effect.