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Concert dance

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Concert dance is a specialized form of artistic expression designed for an audience.

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In the United Kingdom, this art is often called theatre dance or performance dance. The primary goal is to present choreographed movements to spectators. Choreography refers to a set of planned dance steps. Most concert dance is performed to specific, set music. This distinguishes it from social dance or participation dance. Social dance is typically performed without an audience and lacks set music. Some ceremonial or baroque dances act as a bridge between these styles. In those instances, participants may switch roles between performer and audience member.

Many distinct styles of movement define the world of concert dance. Ballet is one of the most widely performed styles today. It originated as a form of courtroom dance in Italy. It later flourished in France and Russia before spreading globally. Over time, ballet transformed into an academic discipline. It is now taught in formal schools and institutions. Professional and amateur troupes moved ballet from royal courts to the theatre. This transition allowed ballet to reach much larger audiences.

Modern and contemporary dance emerged as offshoots of ballet. These genres developed during the 20th century. While they share some technical repertoire, they have evolved unique qualities of movement. Despite these differences, both genres are primarily performed in theatre halls. Another unique style is acrobatic dance, or acro dance. This style emerged in the United States and Canada during the early 1900s. It began as an act within vaudeville shows. Today, acro dance movements are often founded on ballet technique. It has remained a concert dance form since its inception.

Some dance forms possess deep historical and spiritual roots.

Classical Indian dance originated within the temples of India. Its role changed significantly following the Indian independence movement from 1947 to 1950. During this period, dance became a university subject. New dance schools appeared for the first time in the country. This shift helped classical Indian dance move into the concert dance setting of theatres.

Similarly, classical Persian dance was elevated to a formal art during the Qajar dynasty. This dynasty lasted from 1795 to 1925. The dance was performed for the Shah and among elite or bourgeois families. It has since evolved into a modern-day concert dance style.

Other diverse styles contribute to the global landscape of performance. These include hip hop dance, jazz dance, and tap dance. You might also see belly dance, Japanese traditional dance, or Eurythmy. Some practitioners focus on Wuju. Each of these styles offers different ways to engage an audience through movement. They represent the vast variety of how humans express culture through the body.

In the United Kingdom, the term theatre dance is used for many disciplines.

This term is especially common when discussing dance education. The UK maintains several dance training and examination boards. Most of these boards have branches dedicated specifically to theatre dance. They use codified syllabi, which are organized sets of rules and techniques, to teach. These syllabi ensure that students learn specific, standardized movements. This structured approach helps dancers develop high levels of skill.

Many dance teachers and schools worldwide use UK-based organizations for qualifications.

Notable examples include the Royal Academy of Dance. The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing is another major organization. The International Dance Teachers Association also provides training and examinations. Most of these organizations offer ballet, tap, and modern or jazz as core subjects. Some also teach "theatre craft" or "stage dance." These specific subjects are designed to reflect the choreography seen in musical theatre.

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