Exploring Theatre

Introduction
Rhythmic movement and expressive movement can be key elements in onstage storytelling. These movements are often conveyed through a form of dance. The history of dance in stage dramas can be traced to ancient Greek performances. Dance is still an integral part of stage performance in musical theatre.

Destination Title: Dance in Stage Musicals
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Directions:
Read Part I of the article, from "Ancient Beginnings" to "All the Rage: The Castles." Be sure to click on the link to "Stage Dance—Part II" at the end of Part I. Read Part II in its entirety.

After you read Parts I and II, answer the following questions.

1.		Describe the evolution of dance in stage performances throughout history. (Answers may include that in the mid-1800s, minstrel show dances expressed folk traditions and slave life of the Southern plantations. The next wave of dance took on a more provocative tone, focusing on women dancers wearing tights and performing dances that had no connection to the plot of the performance. In the late 1800s, dance was developed to fit characters and plot. In the early 20th century, dance discipline was introduced, and precision chorus dancing was the new dance format. Vaudeville, because of its fashion and unique and eccentric dances, ignited a mass interest in dancing. Also during the early 20th century, the waltz and other kinds of ballroom dances were used to show love between the main characters. In the mid-1900s, dance became an actual storytelling tool. Dance became even more important in the late 20th century when many shows were built around a concept rather than a traditional romantic plot and used dance as a crucial element. Now, in the 21st century, dance is the focus for many stage musicals.)
2.		Theatre historian Richard Kislan stated, "What sets dance apart is the universality in movement and gesture which is not bound like language to nationality or culture. Dance transcends geography in a way that language cannot." In your own words, interpret what Kislan meant and provide examples to justify his statement. (Answers may include that regardless of where in the world you come from, the language you speak, or your cultural background, dance speaks to you. It has no boundaries, requirements, or restrictions. Dance speaks to the human nature that we all share. Dance has crossed cultures, as evidenced by the fact that ancient Greek tap shoes, African American folk dancing, Irish jig steps, Caribbean dances, and folk dances from around the world have made their way into stage performances for decades.