The average dance spectator is usually familiar with styles like ballet, hip-hop, and jazz. However, if your child is just getting into this art form, the mention of “contemporary" dance classes might not ring a bell. Luckily, you can depend on this brief guide to bring you up to speed.

What Is Contemporary Dance?

Contemporary dance can best be described as a fusion or pastiche of multiple earlier dance forms—from ballet and jazz to modern and hip-hop. Contemporary dance is often performed in private or televised dance competitions, including TV shows like, So You Think You Can Dance. It often features balletic leg movements yet maintains modern dance’s focus on a strong core and dramatic floor work.

How Is Modern Dance Different From Contemporary?

While modern dance was a reaction to the many decades of devotion to ballet, it remains loyal to its teachers. There are different styles of modern dance with their own rigid guidelines, such as the Graham technique (created by Martha Graham) or the Cunningham technique (created by Merce Cunningham). These techniques have their own exercises and even specific arm positions or steps associated with them. 

In contrast, contemporary dance doesn’t subscribe to the teachings of one artist or choreographer. It is much more of a fluid and multi-faceted form of dance that can be customized by each dancer. It also focuses on incorporating different types of music, such as pop, hip-hop, rock, electronic, and jazz, including songs with lyrics.

How Did It Begin?

The advent of contemporary dance can seem to blur into modern and post-modern dance practices, but it began sometime around the mid-twentieth century. While Merce Cunningham began as a student of modern dance under Martha Graham, many claim that he was the first to step away from the technique and build the foundation for “contemporary.” He was the first to experiment with different music, sound, technology, and visual art to complement his dances. Cunningham claimed that contemporary dance’s guiding characteristic was continuous innovation, which is why it continues to grow and evolve today.

If you want to expose your child to the wonders of contemporary dance, reach out to Rhythm Dance Center, Inc. of Marietta, GA. They offer various engaging and ground-breaking kids' dance classes throughout their six different studios, including hip-hop, tap, and lyrical styles. Since 1993, they’ve inspired students and formed tight-knit dance communities, complete with annual, year-end shows for families and friends to enjoy. Visit the website to learn more about their dance classes, or call (770) 998-6507 to schedule a tour.