Time Schedule:
Hengda Li
DANCE 234
Seattle Campus
Presents selected dance idioms as they relate to ethnicity in their performance, aesthetics, and history. Topics vary. May have studio component.
Class description
The dance artistry class is an introduction to the Classical Chinese dance. It encompasses all of the basics steps, allowing the student to build a solid foundation.
In this course, we will begin by learning Tu-shou, then we will move on to Shui-xiu. We also will look at other traditional Chinese art forms such as Gong Fu, Calligraphy, and Opera in order to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese artistic styles and aesthetics.
Student learning goals
1) Understand dance as a cultural practice that reflects and impacts local communities and global cultures.
2) Develop and practice analytic, evaluative, and contextual skills requisite to critical thinking, kinesthetic understanding, and personal growth.
3) Develop and practice skills in rhythmic, movement and compositional analysis
4) Develop effective communication and research skills to promote and articulate a deeper understanding of dance practice and theory.
5) Engage in personal assessment and reflective practices that encourage self-directed learning.
6) Understand how basic principals of dance science and teaching methodologies can be applied to technical and aesthetic development. Recognize and expand creative, artistic, and intellectual potentials.
General method of instruction
Course Objectives:
• To enrich the quality of your dancing • To reinforce your basic technique of Classical Chinese dance • To increase knowledge about Chinese dance and culture
Recommended preparation
Prerequisites:
• Recommended level 200 or higher dance experience
Class assignments and grading
Assignments:
• Learn and understand Chinese dance vocabulary • Create a 1-minute combination of a minimum of three new dance movements • Required reading: Circularity is the Essence of the Rhythmic Soul in Classical Chinese Dance by Hengda Li • Attend at least one Chamber Dance Company performance
Grading Criteria:
• Your attitude toward learning • How well you articulate your understanding of the movement • Your level of expressivity and musicality • Your class participation
