5 Principles of African Aesthetic in Dance

Dixon Gottschild's 5 principles of African Aesthetic in dance:

1) Embracing conflict

2) Poly-centrism/ Poly-rhythm

3) High Affect

4) Ephebism

5) Aesthetic of the Cool

What is embracing the conflict?

-embracing dissonance of difference in rhythm and sound

-re-possessing body to perform in a way that they want to perform rather than what they are expected to perform

-themes often included innocence & seduction, detached & threatening, awkward & smooth

-no resolution necessary

What is poly-centrism/ poly-rhythm?

-Poly-centrism: multiple centers

-Poly-rhythm: multiple rhythms ie) tapping head, rubbing belly

-embrace opposing rhythms, coupled with shifting center= high juxtaposition

ie) keep one rhythm while the arms, head or torso dance to different drums

What is high affect?

-mood, attitude, or movement breaks that omit the transitions and connective links (brings about juxtaposition)

ie) a forceful driving mood may over lap and coexist with a light and humorous tone

What is ephebism?

-greek word for youth

-encompasses attributes such as power, vitality, flexibility, attack, drive, intensity

-ie) old lady dancing young with vitality

what is the aesthetic of the cool?

-the cool embraces the other principles

-it combines composure with vitality

-maintaining composure amidst all things

-ie) twerking

History of African Aesthetic in Ballet?

George Balanchine used African aesthetic (influenced by people/ dancers around him) to create Ballet tenants in America