Contemporary dance is a dynamic and ever-evolving art form that allows dancers to express themselves in unique and innovative ways. As we move further into the 2020s, the world of contemporary dance continues to push boundaries, blending techniques from various disciplines and encouraging individuality. If you're looking to refine your skills and carve out your own distinct style in advanced contemporary dance, here are some key insights to guide you on your journey.
1. Master the Fundamentals
Before you can break the rules, you need to know them. Advanced contemporary dance builds on a strong foundation of classical and modern dance techniques. Focus on perfecting your alignment, balance, and control. Take time to revisit basic exercises like pliés, tendus, and spirals—they are the building blocks of more complex movements. A solid technical foundation will give you the freedom to explore and innovate without compromising your form.
2. Embrace Improvisation
Improvisation is a cornerstone of contemporary dance. It allows you to tap into your instincts, explore new movements, and discover your personal movement vocabulary. Set aside time in your practice sessions to improvise freely, without judgment or structure. Use prompts like music, emotions, or imagery to inspire your movement. Over time, you'll start to notice patterns and preferences that can help define your unique style.
3. Study Other Art Forms
Contemporary dance thrives on interdisciplinary influences. Expand your horizons by studying other art forms such as visual arts, theater, music, and even martial arts. These disciplines can inspire new ways of moving and thinking about dance. For example, the fluidity of brushstrokes in painting might translate into smoother transitions in your choreography, or the rhythm of a poem could influence the timing of your movements.
4. Collaborate with Others
Collaboration is a powerful tool for growth. Work with other dancers, choreographers, musicians, and artists to gain fresh perspectives and challenge your creative boundaries. Collaborative projects often lead to unexpected discoveries and can help you refine your style by exposing you to different approaches and ideas.
5. Develop Your Emotional Range
Contemporary dance is deeply rooted in emotion and storytelling. To stand out as an advanced dancer, you need to connect with your audience on an emotional level. Experiment with expressing a wide range of emotions through your movement—joy, sorrow, anger, vulnerability. The more you explore your emotional range, the more authentic and compelling your performances will become.
6. Experiment with Choreography
Creating your own choreography is one of the best ways to refine your skills and develop your unique style. Start small by choreographing short pieces for yourself or a small group. Pay attention to how you use space, timing, and dynamics. Over time, you'll develop a signature approach to movement that sets you apart from others.
7. Stay Physically and Mentally Fit
Advanced contemporary dance demands both physical and mental stamina. Maintain a regular fitness routine that includes strength training, flexibility exercises, and cardiovascular workouts. Equally important is your mental well-being—practice mindfulness, meditation, or journaling to stay focused and inspired. A healthy body and mind are essential for pushing your limits and achieving your artistic goals.
8. Seek Feedback and Stay Open to Growth
Constructive feedback is invaluable for growth. Share your work with trusted mentors, peers, or audiences and be open to their insights. Use their feedback to refine your technique and artistic choices. Remember, growth is a continuous process, and even the most accomplished dancers are always learning and evolving.
9. Stay Inspired
Inspiration can come from anywhere—nature, literature, personal experiences, or even everyday life. Keep a journal or sketchbook to document your ideas and observations. Watch performances by other dancers and choreographers to stay informed about trends and innovations in the field. The more inspired you are, the more your unique style will shine through in your work.
10. Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, your unique style comes from within. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to take risks. Contemporary dance is about breaking free from conventions and expressing your authentic self. Embrace your individuality, and let it guide your movement and creativity.
Advanced contemporary dance is a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. By mastering the fundamentals, embracing improvisation, and staying open to growth, you can refine your skills and develop a style that is uniquely yours. Remember, the most memorable dancers are those who dare to be different and stay true to themselves.
