Handout for HOPE 3 (Quarter 1): Contemporary Dance and Philippine Folk Dance

50 vocabulary flashcards covering contemporary dance concepts, Philippine folk dances, and fundamental positions and step patterns.

Contemporary dance

A style of expressive dance that blends modern, jazz, lyrical, and ballet; emphasizes fluid movement, emotional expression, and freedom, often performed barefoot to explore natural body lines and energy.

Modern dance

A 20th-century movement form that, with ballet, forms the basis of contemporary dance and emphasizes natural, expressive movement.

Jazz dance

A dance genre that is part of contemporary dance, known for its rhythm, improvisation, and expressive style.

Ballet

A classic form considered the heart of dance, foundational to many styles within contemporary dance.

Isadora Duncan

Pioneer of modern/contemporary dance who gained acclaim across Europe and the United States.

Martha Graham

Mother of Contemporary; influential American choreographer and dancer.

Merce Cunningham

Mother of Contemporary; influential contemporary choreographer known for innovating movement.

Theme

The most basic element of a dance that conveys its message.

Design

Pattern of movement in time and space.

Movement

The bodily actions of the dancer, including steps.

Technique

The skill of movement executed by the dancer.

Music

The auditory background to which a dancer moves.

Costume & body paraphernalia

Props and clothing worn by the dancer that reflect the message, customs, and beliefs.

Choreography

The figures and steps that enable dancers to perform in an organized manner.

Scenery

The background or setting of a dance to enhance realism and mood.

Philippine Folk Dance

A rich cultural expression representing the traditions, beliefs, and customs of different Philippine regions.

Maglalatik

A mock war dance representing a fight between Christians and Muslims over latik.

Latik

A food topping (coconut milk curd) referenced in Maglalatik as part of the dance’s symbolism.

Banga Dance

Dance performed by women balancing clay pots on their heads, often with traditional gongs and percussion.

Carinosa

Courtship dance that uses a fan or handkerchief to express romantic interest.

Sayaw sa Bangko

Dance performed on narrow wooden benches to showcase balance and skill.

Tinikling

Dance that mimics tikling birds; developed during Spanish rule as a form of punishment.

Kuratsa

Romantic courtship dance usually performed at weddings.

Itik-Itik

Dance that imitates duck movements such as waddling, swimming, and splashing.

Mananguete

Depicts gathering tuba from palm trees in traditional practice.

Balitaw

Song and dance debate featuring poetic exchanges on love and relationships.

Paseo De Ilo-Ilo

Formal and elegant dance inspired by the social promenade or paseo.

Pagapir

Royal court dance performed by women holding ornate fans.

Kadaliwas

Dance that imitates monkey movements.

Janggay

Fingernail dance using extended metal claws (clawa), symbolizing femininity and beauty.

Kappa Malong-Malong

Dance showcasing how the malong (tube skirt) is used in daily life.

Singkil

Bamboo clapping and fan movement dance that follows a structured rhythm.

First Position (Arms)

Arms raised in a circle in front of the body.

Second Position (Arms)

Arms opened to the side, slightly rounded.

Third Position (Arms)

One arm raised in front (first), the other to the side (second).

Fourth Position (Arms)

One arm raised overhead, the other in front.

Fifth Position (Arms)

Both arms raised overhead, slightly rounded.

First Position (Feet)

Heels together, toes apart.

Second Position (Feet)

Feet apart sideward.

Third Position (Feet)

One foot in front, heel touching the instep of the back foot.

Fourth Position (Feet)

Feet apart, one foot in front of the other.

Fifth Position (Feet)

Heel of the front foot touching the toe of the back foot.

Close Step

Step one foot close to the other foot, usually to prepare or end a movement.

Touch Step

Touch the free foot beside the supporting foot without transferring weight.

Point Step

Extend one foot forward, sideward, or backward with the toe pointed, without weight.

Mazurka

Step-hop movement done in 3/4 time, commonly starting with the right foot.

Mincing

Series of very small, quick steps, often used by female dancers.

March

A walk with a steady beat, lifting the knees and swinging the arms.

Hop

A movement where the dancer jumps and lands on the same foot.