American dance has evolved dramatically since colonial times, blending European, African, and Native American influences. From social dances to modern and postmodern forms, it reflects the nation's diverse cultural heritage and societal changes.

Key figures like Isadora Duncan, Martha Graham, and George Balanchine revolutionized dance in America. Their innovations, along with social movements and global influences, shaped the rich tapestry of American dance styles we see today.

Historical Development of American Dance

American dance history timeline

• Colonial era (1600s-1700s)
  • European social dances (minuets, quadrilles) introduced and adapted
  • Native American ceremonial and social dances continue despite suppression
• 19th century
  • Minstrel shows popularize African American dance forms in distorted, stereotypical manner
  • Vaudeville stages feature variety acts including dance
  • Modern dance pioneers (Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, Ted Shawn) break from ballet's constraints
• Early 20th century
  • African American dance styles (jazz, tap, swing) gain mainstream popularity
  • Ballroom dances (foxtrot, waltz, tango) become social dance crazes
  • Modern dance develops as a distinct art form (Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, Charles Weidman)
• Mid-20th century
  • Ballet establishes itself in America with George Balanchine and the New York City Ballet
  • Postmodern dance emerges, experimenting with chance and everyday movement (Merce Cunningham, Judson Dance Theater)
  • Broadway musicals integrate dance as a central element of storytelling
• Late 20th century to present
  • Hip-hop and street dance styles (breaking, locking, popping) emerge from urban communities
  • Fusion of various dance genres creates new hybrid forms
  • Globalization leads to increased cultural exchange and diversity in American dance

Key figures in American dance

• Isadora Duncan
  • Pioneered modern dance by rejecting ballet's strict techniques and costumes
  • Emphasized natural, expressive movement inspired by ancient Greek art
• Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn
  • Founded influential Denishawn School and Company
  • Incorporated elements of Eastern and Native American dance into their work
• Martha Graham
  • Developed the Graham technique, a foundation of modern dance training
  • Created psychologically and emotionally complex choreography
• George Balanchine
  • Established neoclassical ballet style, emphasizing speed, precision, and musicality
  • Co-founded the New York City Ballet, a leading American ballet company
• Alvin Ailey
  • Founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater to celebrate African American culture and experience
  • Created iconic works such as "Revelations" that blend modern, ballet, and African dance
• Merce Cunningham
  • Pioneered postmodern dance, using chance procedures and abstract movement
  • Collaborated with avant-garde composers and visual artists
• Judson Dance Theater collective
  • Challenged traditional notions of dance, incorporating pedestrian movement and improvisation
  • Included influential choreographers such as Trisha Brown, Yvonne Rainer, and Steve Paxton

Social, Cultural, and Artistic Context

Societal influences on American dance

• Industrialization and urbanization
  • Migration to cities led to the development of dance halls and ballrooms
  • Urban environments fostered the creation and spread of new dance styles
• Great Depression
  • Federal Theatre Project provided funding for dance performances and education
  • Socially conscious dance works addressed themes of poverty and inequality
• Civil Rights Movement
  • African American dancers challenged racial segregation and stereotypes in the dance world
  • Integration of dance companies and venues promoted diversity and equity
• Feminist movement
  • Female choreographers and dancers asserted their creative agency and leadership
  • Dance works explored gender roles, identity, and women's experiences
• Globalization and cultural exchange
  • Increased exposure to international dance forms influenced American choreographers
  • Collaborations between American and international dance artists became more common

Comparison of American dance styles

• Ballet
  • Characterized by grace, precision, and technical virtuosity
  • Relies on structured techniques and vocabulary (turnout, pointe work)
  • Often tells stories through choreography and mime
• Modern dance
  • Rejects ballet's rigidity in favor of natural, expressive movement
  • Explores abstract themes and inner emotions
  • Emphasizes individuality and innovation in choreography
• Jazz dance
  • Rooted in African American vernacular dance and music
  • Features syncopated rhythms, isolation of body parts, and improvisation
  • Values personal style and expression
• Tap dance
  • Focuses on percussive footwork and complex rhythmic patterns
  • Draws from African and Irish dance traditions
  • Often performed to jazz music or without accompaniment
• Hip-hop dance
  • Originated in African American and Latino urban communities
  • Includes styles such as breaking, locking, popping, and freestyle
  • Emphasizes battles, cypher circles, and individual expression