THEA223

This course introduces students to the techniques, vocabulary, history and developments within Modern Dance, a specific form of dance which emerged in Europe and the U.S in reaction to the strictures of ballet in the first half of the 20*" century. In a safe and supportive environment within which embodied exploration can take place, students will develop as creative dancers, applying the foundational movement techniques and methodologies of the form. Through readings and video viewings, students will learn about the most important Modern Dance pioneers - Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, Martha Graham, Mary Wigman, Katharine Dunham, Alvin Ailey, Doris Humphrey, and Jose Limon, among others. Students will apply this knowledge to their own dancing and choreographic projects. In addition, the class will travel into NYC to attend a professional Modern Dance concert. Utilizing observation, -
discussions, readings, viewing assignments, reflective and analytical writing, as well as participation in class, students will arrive at a deeper understanding of Modern Dance as an ever~evolving art form reflective of the time in which it was created but attuned to contemporary society and culture as well.
Basic Modern Dance fulfills the Culture and Creativity General Education distribution requirement.