Topics vary from semester to semester and have included The Power of Music and Poetry in the Theater; Modern Drama and Theater, 1940 to the Present; Theaters, Tricksters, and Cultural Exchange; Art as Social Action; and The Invisible World (Process Seminar).

This course is an introduction to the study and development of skills, technique, choreographic devices, and elements of traditional and neo – traditional dance forms from some ethnic groups in Africa. Movement phrases and vocabularies from these traditional dance forms will serve as the foundation to our movement exploration, composition, and choreography. Students will also develop and create their own dances building of from the fundamental African dance technique. Through the dance forms, chants, storytelling, etc., students will be immersed in and understand poly-rhythmic movements, aesthetics diversity, and societal purpose of dance. Students will also explore the traditions, values system, and history of specific dance forms. The course further places emphasis on movement technique; body awareness, placement, flexibility, use of energy and focus. The musical accompaniments such as vocals, drum text, clapping, etc. of these dances are equally examined and remain an integral part of the course. Warm-up exercises and combinations derived from elementary-level traditional dances designed to enable students’ achievement of the learning goals will stay consistent over the course of the semester.

Repeat Rules