Objectives
1. Identify and describe the main urban dance styles such as breaking, popping, locking, and house dance, highlighting their origins and unique characteristics.
2. Explore the concepts of freedom, creativity, expressiveness, and movement within the context of urban dances.
3. Enhance critical observation and teamwork skills through practical activities involving dance and expression.
Contextualization
Did you know urban dances started as a way for people to express themselves in the streets and public spaces? In the vibrant environment of New York City during the late 60s and early 70s, young people transformed rhythm and movement into a powerful form of expression that spoke of their lives, challenges, and dreams. This explosion of creativity birthed what we now know as 'breaking' and 'popping'—styles that are far more than just dance; they're stories brought to life!
Important Topics
Breaking
Breaking, often referred to as breakdancing, stands as one of the oldest forms of urban dance. It emerged in the streets of New York City in the 1970s as a means for young people to channel their frustrations and aspirations. Characterized by acrobatic moves, floor spins, and dance battles, breaking emphasizes individual expression and friendly competition.
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Acrobatic movements: This includes powerful head spins and gravity-defying jumps, showcasing the physical intensity of breaking.
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Individual expression: Each dancer or 'b-boy'/'b-girl' uses breaking to showcase their personal identity, making every performance unique.
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Friendly competition: Breakdance battles are central to this style, with dancers competing in skill, creativity, and flair—fostering respect and camaraderie.
Popping
Popping is an urban dance style that originated in California during the late 70s. Known for its sharp, robotic movements that 'pop' in sync with the music, this style often features optical illusions and fluid motions, creating captivating performances.
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Pop movements: Characterized by a quick contraction of the muscles followed by relaxation, resulting in a 'pop' synced to the music's beat.
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Optical illusions: Many popping routines include 'waves' and 'glides' that seem to defy physics, captivating audiences.
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Expressiveness and control: Popping demands top-notch muscle control, allowing dancers to express a range of emotions through tightly executed movements.
Locking
Locking is a lively and funky urban dance style that surfaced in the clubs of Los Angeles in the 1970s. It features speedy, precise movements followed by sudden 'locks,' where a dancer freezes for a moment.
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Quick movements and 'locks': The dramatic pauses known as 'locks' are often integrated amid rapid movements, adding flair to the dance.
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Style and clothing: Locking often showcases vibrant, eye-catching outfits that reflect the energetic nature of the style.
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Audience engagement: Lockers frequently interact with the audience during performances, boosting the entertainment value and connection in the dance.
Key Terms
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Urban Dances: Dance styles that arose and evolved in urban settings, typically within streets or public spaces, characterized by their energy, creativity, and social connections.
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Expressiveness: The capability to convey feelings and narratives through body movements in dance, allowing dancers to share emotions and stories without words.
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Movement: In dance, this refers to altering the body's position in space—crucial for both technique and artistic expression in various dance styles.
For Reflection
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How do the culture and environment of a city influence the development of a particular urban dance style?
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In what ways do freedom and expressiveness manifest in urban dances compared to other art forms?
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What impact do dance battles have on dancers' identities and their social skills?
Important Conclusions
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Today, we explored the dynamic world of urban dances, including styles such as breaking, popping, locking, and house dance. These dances are more than mere movements; they're rich cultural expressions that reflect the stories and identities of communities.
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We examined how freedom, creativity, expressiveness, and movement surface in these dances, enabling dancers to convey their emotions and stories in unique and impactful ways.
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We recognized the significance of each urban dance style and their role in enriching cultural diversity and fostering understanding among people, promoting inclusion and respect through artistry.
To Exercise Knowledge
To put into practice what we've discussed, try crafting your own short choreography by blending two urban dance styles we covered. Film your performance and reflect on how you integrated the concepts of expressiveness and movement into your dance.
Challenge
🌟 Urban Dancer Challenge 🌟 - Learn and execute a 30-second sequence from a renowned urban dance video. Focus on capturing the essence of the style and share your experience with the class!
Study Tips
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Watch videos of urban dance competitions to see how different dancers apply the concepts of expressiveness and creativity.
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Research the history of urban dances and their evolution over the decades for a deeper understanding of the styles and their cultural roots.
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Practice regularly; like any artistic endeavour, dance improves with consistent effort. Use music you enjoy to inspire your movements and expressions.
