Diving into Contemporary Dance: Tips for Writers Creating Plausible Art School Stories

When writing a story where the main character is a contemporary dancer at an art school, it's essential to understand the genre of dance fully. Your knowledge will help you create a believable and captivating narrative for your readers. Here are some tips to get you started and make your setting and characters more plausible.

Understanding the Challenges of Contemporary Dance

Contemporary dance is known for its grounding in modern dance techniques, emphasizing expression, fluidity, and emotional depth. However, it is also rigorous and physically demanding. In preparing for this genre of dance, it's important to understand the struggles contemporary dancers face, particularly with regards to their toes and feet.

Elevate your understanding by watching movies and documentaries about contemporary dancers. Disney's Newsies features an ensemble of dancers that, while not necessarily contemporary, can give you a glimpse of the intense training and dedication. Additionally, documentaries like "Dancing With 'The Stars' and "The Dancer" provide in-depth looks into the lives of professional dancers, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges they face.

Engaging with firsthand accounts is another valuable approach. Talk to contemporary dancers at your local dance studios or at an art school. They can provide insights into the day-to-day realities of performing contemporary dance, from the daily rehearsals to the specialized techniques they use, which may not be as widely known to the general public.

Getting to Know the Language and Practices of Contemporary Dance

To weave the nuances of contemporary dance into your narrative, familiarize yourself with the technical terms and clothing associated with this genre. Modern dance is not straightforward, and its shapes and movements can be highly individualized.
Get started by visiting the library or searching for books on contemporary dance. Some helpful references include “Contemporary Dance: From Practice to Performance” by Mary W. Holmes, which delves into the history and techniques of contemporary dance, and “Ballet Technique and Performance” by Fiona Johnson, which covers the basics of ballet technique, which often underpin contemporary dance.

For a deep dive into the music and time signatures that come into play, consider borrowing a book on basic music terminology for writers. A book like "Music Notation and Terminology for Non-Musicians" can provide a solid foundation in understanding how different musical elements contribute to the dance performance. Similarly, learning about the equipment used can help you understand the setup and logistics of a contemporary dance class or performance. This knowledge can add richness to your descriptions of the setting, such as the dance studio or rehearsal space.

Creating Believable and Compelling Dance Characters

If you're not a contemporary dancer yourself, there's no shame in that. However, if your character is a dancer, it's crucial to understand the ins and outs of contemporary dance as if it was your profession. Enroll in classes or workshops to learn the basics, and immerse yourself in the world of contemporary dance through various resources:

Watch performances and classes: Online platforms offer countless resources. YouTube is a treasure trove of contemporary dance classes and performances, from Martha Graham to Merce Cunningham and beyond. Watch performances by renowned choreographers like Alvin Ailey and Paul Taylor to understand the diverse range of contemporary dance styles. Read about great dancers and choreographers: Popular contemporary dance figures known for their pioneering work include Martha Graham, Isadora Duncan, Merce Cunningham, Alvin Ailey, and Paul Taylor. Read biographies and studies about their contributions to modern dance. This knowledge will help you create dynamic characters with rich backstories and unique dance techniques. Understand the evolution of contemporary dance: Contemporary dance evolved from ballet and other dance forms, breaking traditional rules to emphasize individual expression. Understanding this evolution will help you present your characters' challenges and triumphs in a way that feels authentic to their experiences.

From the physical demands of the dance to the emotional and mental preparation needed, every aspect of contemporary dance is rich with narrative possibilities. The more you immerse yourself in the world of contemporary dance, the more you'll be able to authentically portray your characters and the settings in your story.

Conclusion

Writing about contemporary dance is a rewarding but challenging task. By learning about its techniques, challenges, and the historical context, you can create a story that resonates with readers who share your passion for dance. Embrace the learning process, and with dedication and a thorough understanding of contemporary dance, you can craft a compelling and believable narrative.