Contemporary dance is a versatile and expressive dance form that requires a strong foundation in technique, as well as a deep emotional connection to the music and movement. As an intermediate dancer, you may feel like you've hit a plateau in your training, but there are many ways to continue to grow and develop as a dancer. In this guide, we'll explore some strategies for unlocking your potential and taking your contemporary dance skills to the next level.
1. Focus on Improvisation
Improvisation is a key component of contemporary dance, and it can be a powerful tool for unlocking your creativity and expressiveness. Start by setting aside time in your practice sessions to explore movement without the constraints of choreography. Use a metronome or a piece of music to guide your movement, and focus on staying present and in the moment. Remember that there are no mistakes in improvisation – every movement choice is valid and can lead to new discoveries about your body and your movement style.
2. Study Different Styles and Techniques
Contemporary dance is a diverse and ever-evolving art form, and there are many different styles and techniques that you can draw inspiration from. Consider studying different forms of dance, such as ballet, modern, or jazz, to expand your movement vocabulary and develop a more well-rounded skill set. You can also explore different styles of contemporary dance, such as the fluid and expressive movement of the Limón technique or the grounded and powerful movement of the Horton technique.
3. Work on Your Strength and Flexibility
Contemporary dance requires a strong and flexible body, and it's important to prioritize your physical conditioning in order to perform at your best. Incorporate strength training and flexibility exercises into your regular fitness routine, and consider working with a physical therapist or personal trainer to develop a program that's tailored to your specific needs as a dancer. Remember to listen to your body and avoid overtraining, which can lead to injury and burnout.
4. Connect with Your Emotions
Contemporary dance is an emotional and expressive art form, and it's important to connect with your emotions in order to bring depth and nuance to your movement. Start by exploring different ways of accessing your emotions, such as through visualization or journaling. You can also experiment with different types of music or prompts to inspire your movement and help you connect with your inner world.
5. Seek Out Performance Opportunities
Finally, one of the best ways to continue to grow and develop as a contemporary dancer is to seek out performance opportunities. Whether it's a local dance festival, a community theater production, or a self-produced show, performing in front of an audience can help you build confidence, refine your performance skills, and connect with other artists in your community. Don't be afraid to take risks and push yourself outside of your comfort zone – the most rewarding experiences often come from stepping into the unknown.
By focusing on these strategies, you can continue to grow and develop as a contemporary dancer and unlock your full potential as an artist. Remember to be patient with yourself and trust the process – with dedication and hard work, there's no limit to what you can achieve in the world of contemporary dance.
