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Elements of dance

it is the fundamental building blocks that make up all human movement.

Space

it is the area that performers occupy and where they move in and around.

Direction dance

Movement can travel in any direction. The performers can go forward, sideward, backward, diagonal, circular, and so on.

Size

Movements can be varied by doing larger or smaller actions.

Level

Movements can be done in a high, medium, or low level.

Focus

Performers may change their actions by looking in different directions.

Timing

The movements may be executed at varying tempos. Performers move with the tempo of an underlying sound, known as beat or pulse.

Sustained

Movements are done smoothly, continuously, and with flow and control.

Percussive

Movements are explosive or sharp in contrast with sustained movements.

Vibratory

Movements consists of trembling or shaking.

Swinging

Movements traced a curved line or an arc in space.

Suspend

Movements are perched in space or hanging on air.

Collapsing

Movements are released in tension and gradually or abruptly giving into gravity, letting the body descend to the floor.

Bodily shapes

They refer to how the entire body is molded in space or the configuration of the body parts.

Symmetrical

Balanced shape; movements are practically identical or similar on both sides.

Asymmetrical

Unbalanced shape; movements of two sides of the body do not match or are completely different from each other.

Group shapes

A group of dancers performs movements in different group shapes

Myers (2005)

human beings naturally desire rhythmic movement. Whether in sports, daily activities, or dance the human body serves as the primary instrument of movement.

Loutzaki (2019)

dance is a product of intellectual effort that is appreciated based on aesthetic standards and meaningful expression.

peggy van praagh and peter brinson

they explained that dance is a communicative art in which body movements express ideas and emotions

alwin nikolais

he described dance as “the art of motion”, where movement itself becomes its own purpose and expression

Ravelin et al. (2006)

according to them, dance combines movement, music, rhythm, mindfulness, expression, and functionality

Alejandro and santos-gana (2002)

according to them, dance originated during prehistoric times and developed through different civilizations

Ancient egypt

Dance was mainly performed during religious ceremonies and was recorded in wall paintings, reliefs, and hieroglyphics

Ancient greece

They highly valued dance. It was used in education, military, training, religion, and entertainment

Ancient rome

Unlike the greeks, they gradually gave less importance of dance and used it for entertainment

Kassing (2007)

after the fall of the Roman Empire, the Catholic Church became the center of education and culture. Dance was initially discouraged because it was associated with entertainment.

Fine (1981) and poly de mille

According to them, dancing is considered one of the oldest and most effective forms of exercise because it involves continuous body movement that improve overall fitness while providing enjoyment.

Keller (2007), Chilis (2007), branch, pate, and bourque (2000)

according to them, regular dancing improves cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, coordination and body composition while reducing risks of chronic diseases

Ravelin et al. (2006)

according to him, dance can improve emotional well-being by reducing stress and depression while increasing self-esteem and confidence.

Kraus and chapman (1981)

according to them, dance encourages positive social interaction and meaningful relationships.

schlottmann and rutledge (1948)

According to them, dance preserves and showcases rich cultural traditions of different countries.