Modern or Contemporary dance is a relatively new style of dance that has only become popular in the 20th century (as said in the name 'modern' dance). Modern can be done solo or in a group. Another thing that is popular for modern is to have a couple, consisting of a male and a female. Modern is one of the most expressive styles of dance.


Modern or Contemporary dance began in the early 1900's. It started when three well known individuals began to rebel against the style of classical ballet. They let go of the strict ballet costumes, the shoes, and most importantly the technique. These three women, Isadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis, and Mary Wigman became known as the creators of modern dance. These women showed people a more relaxed style of dance where they could let their emotions influence, and help them create their own steps. Martha Graham is considered one of the creators of American modern dance. Modern has evolved much with time. It started as an emotional and sometimes narrative dance. Crises in the world influenced modern dance greatly. Many modern choreographers create dances about economic, political and social problems, therefor it will be forever changing.


In modern, there are no set steps. Choreographers may use steps from other styles of dance, they may modify them, or they may completely create their own steps. Many commonly used steps in modern, are based on those of ballet because modern was derived from ballet. In modern, dancers will use their body weight and gravity to emphasize a movement, and try to 'get into the ground'. Falling to the floor are also very common. Unless choreographed into the dance purposefully, dancers will try to relax their head and neck in modern, with their head as the last thing to come up in their body while rolling up. One of the beauties of modern dance is that you can do what you please.

© 2009 Jordynn