It is open to other graduate students in dance. Using a chronological and geographical approach, this course traces performance trends in dance, music and theater from West Africa to the Caribbean to the U.S. Examples of commonality and continuity are explored in selections from Yoruba, Akan, Vodun and African genres. A course designed to confront the elements of dance composition through improvisation, short movement studies and dances that are presented, discussed, and reworked in class. A final composition will demonstrate skills, sensitivities, and understandings acquired. Problems in Dance Research.
Students present their work, at various phases of development, to their peers for critical review.
This topic-specific seminar will address current issues in the field of dance, ranging from criticism, aesthetics, collaborations, and choreographic trends to funding in the arts, performance opportunities, dance training, and injury prevention. Frequent guests will stimulate discussion in their areas of interest and expertise. Graduate students develop original works with the guidance of dance faculty. These can range from explorative studies to major group works. Each student will contract with the instructor as to what they intend to accomplish within the course.