Influences

Understanding Influences in Dance

• The term influences refers to the factors or elements that have shaped the development and expression of dance.
• These can span a variety of areas including cultural heritage, personal experiences of the choreographer, political and social contexts, or artistic cross-pollination.
• The field of dance is continually evolving; thus, influences are oftentimes complex and multifaceted, making them integral to critical engagement.

Recognising Cultural Influences

• Cultural influences involve the traditions, values, and history of a particular group, which might be regional, national, or even global.
• Specific dance forms or styles can emerge from these cultural influences, such as Bharatanatyam from India or Samba from Brazil.
• The exploration of cultural heritage can lead to an in-depth understanding of dance, fostering improved appreciation and critique.

Artistic and Choreographic Influences

• Personal influences can greatly shape a choreographer’s approach to creating movement, these may include their training, past experiences, beliefs, or creative aspirations.
• Other artists or works within or outside the dance field, such as visual arts, literature, or music, can profoundly influence a choreographer’s creative process.
• Choreographic approach can also be influenced by different philosophies or theories of movement, such as Laban Movement Analysis or Bartenieff Fundamentals.

Influences of Time and Context

• Dance is a product of its time, and historical influences can shape the themes, movement vocabulary, and aesthetic of a dance.
• Social or political contexts can serve as significant influences, driving choreographers to create works that respond to, or challenge, societal norms and issues.
• The influence of technology and digital media on dance, such as in choreographing for the camera or integrating digital arts, is a contemporary development, reflecting changing times and contexts.

Role of Influences in Critical Engagement

• Understanding influences can contribute considerably to a well-informed critical analysis of dance.
• Insight into influences can enhance understanding of the creative intention and context of a dance piece, supporting deeper engagement.
• Examining influences encourages broadened perspectives, fostering dialogues around cultural diversity, innovation, and the evolution of dance.
• Knowledge of influences can facilitate meaningful comparisons between different dance works or styles, and their creative contexts.