CONTEMPORARY BALLET Meaning and
Definition
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Contemporary ballet is a genre of dance that emerged in the late 20th century as a fusion of classical ballet technique with modern dance movements and philosophies. It is characterized by its innovative and experimental approach, breaking the traditional conventions of ballet while still drawing on its foundation.
Contemporary ballet emphasizes fluidity, versatility, and creativity, emphasizing self-expression and individual interpretation. Dancers in this style are encouraged to play with dynamics, explore different movement qualities, and challenge the boundaries of classical technique. It often incorporates elements of improvisation, partnering work, and floor work to create a more organic and authentic movement vocabulary.
One distinguishing feature of contemporary ballet is its interdisciplinary nature. It often collaborates with other art forms such as visual arts, music, and technology, blurring the lines between dance and other mediums. This allows for the creation of multi-sensory experiences and dynamic performances that challenge traditional notions of ballet.
Contemporary ballet also addresses current social and cultural issues, utilizing storytelling and narrative elements to convey themes and messages. It can be highly theatrical, incorporating spoken word or multimedia elements to enhance the storytelling aspect.
Overall, contemporary ballet offers a diverse and dynamic space for choreographers and dancers to explore and push the boundaries of movement, technique, and expression. It combines the gracefulness and technical precision of classical ballet with the freedom and exploration of contemporary dance forms, creating a unique and ever-evolving genre.
Etymology of CONTEMPORARY BALLET
The word "contemporary" originates from the Latin word "contemporaneus", which is a combination of "con-" meaning "with" and "tempus" meaning "time". The term "ballet" has French origins derived from the Italian "balletto", which means "a dance". Therefore, "contemporary ballet" refers to a dance form that combines classical ballet techniques with modern or contemporary dance styles. The term emerged in the mid-20th century to describe a form of dance that breaks away from the strict conventions of traditional classical ballet.
