Modern dance facts for kids
Modern Dance is a type of dance that started in the 20th century. It's connected to ballet, but it's very different from traditional ballet. Many modern dancers learn ballet first. Modern dance groups are also similar to ballet companies.
Sometimes, the term 'Modern dance' is used for a type of Ballroom dance. But on this page, 'Modern dance' means a special kind of performance dance. This dance style doesn't have strict rules. Modern dancers often create their own routines. They use their emotions and moods to inspire their movements. However, many modern dance shows are still carefully planned by a choreographer.
Modern dancers like a relaxed and free way of moving. Ballet dancers try to be light and floaty. But modern dancers use their body weight to make their movements stronger and more grounded.
Modern dance also doesn't need special costumes. Dancers often perform barefoot and wear clothes they choose themselves. Modern dancers try to show their deepest feelings through their dancing. They often pick a topic that means a lot to them. Then they try to express that topic to the audience through their dance.
The History of Modern Dance
Modern Dance began in the 1900s. It mostly developed in the United States and Germany. In the early 20th century, some female dancers started to push back. They didn't like the strict rules of classical ballet.
Pioneers of Modern Dance
Some of the first important modern dancers in the United States were Isadora Duncan, Loie Fuller, Ruth St. Denis, and Martha Graham. In Germany, the pioneers included Rudolf Von Laban and Mary Wigman. These dancers helped create the new style we call modern dance today.
Images for kids
-
Martha Graham in 1948
-
Isadora Duncan in 1903
-
Dancer at the Laban school, Berlin 1929
-
Martha Graham and Bertram Ross in 1961; photo by Carl van Vechten
-
Rudolf von Laban and pupils at his dance school, Berlin 1929
See also
In Spanish: Danza contemporánea para niños
