5 Essential Contemporary Dance Moves to Master as an Intermediate Dancer
Contemporary dance thrives on fluidity, emotion, and technical precision. As you transition from beginner to intermediate, these five movements will expand your expressive range and technical foundation. Each builds strength, control, and artistry—key elements of today's contemporary style.
A dynamic evolution of the basic roll-down that incorporates spinal rotation. Start standing, initiate a slight torso rotation as you articulate through each vertebra, letting your arms follow the spiral path downward. Rebuild with the same rotation.
Imagine drawing a helix (3D spiral) with your sternum as you descend. This move improves thoracic mobility essential for contemporary partnering work.
Unlike ballet's static arabesque, the contemporary version plays with momentum. From a run or pivot, extend one leg backward while tilting the torso forward, creating a moment of weightless suspension before transitioning into your next movement.
Keep your supporting knee soft to absorb momentum. Your extended leg should create one continuous line from fingertips to toes through your back.
This flashy but controlled move starts with a controlled slide on one knee (use dance kneepads!), then uses that momentum to push into a stag leap (one leg bent front, one bent back). Perfect for audition pieces.
Practice the slide on marley flooring first. Engage your core to control the slide's speed—this isn't a baseball pitch!
Originally a partnering move, this solo version uses imagined resistance. Extend one arm as if pulling against a partner's weight while curving your torso away, then suddenly "release" into a fall or turn.
This move shines when you commit to the story—are you resisting fate? Pulling toward desire? The physical tension should mirror emotional tension.
Beyond the basic body wave, this advanced undulation incorporates sequential movement through the ribs, pelvis, and knees with fluid arm pathways. Think of it as "liquid metal" movement.
Break it down: 1) Rib cage forward/back 2) Pelvis tilt 3) Knee bend sequencing. Only combine when each segment feels natural.
Taking These Moves Further
Contemporary dance in 2025 values adaptability—these moves aren't rigid patterns but movement concepts to make your own. Try altering their speed (try super-slow!), changing their initiation points, or combining them in unexpected ways. The best contemporary dancers don't just execute steps; they reinterpret them with personal authenticity.
Remember: Intermediate means you have enough technique to start breaking rules intentionally. Play with imperfections—a slightly off-balance spiral or an intentionally abrupt transition can become your signature style.
