When working with students on choreography it’s possible to get them thinking beyond steps to a more robust concept of creative process that encourages thoughtful choices about all areas of production. Heather demonstrated this with her previous article. This time, she goes a step further, showing you ways to connect these ideas with dance history to enrich students’ understanding.
Beyond the Bubble
Tap Classics: Paddle and Roll Heroes, Lon Chaney & Bunny Briggs
Many contenders could claim to be “the king” of paddle and roll (also called paradiddles) but no other dancer is identified more with the tap step than tap icon, Lon Chaney. Bunny Briggs has also made his mark with the step, as have others. Learn more about paddle and roll and its origins.
Confessions of a 30-year old Grade III Grad: Why Cecchetti?
Fresh from her Grade III Cecchetti teacher’s exam, Lauren Warnecke reflects on why, despite that she’s not actively teaching ballet, she continued to study the Method. Purely editorial, her musings are a peek inside the exam process and tip of the hat to the man behind the Method.
What The Ailey School’s Melanie Person Knew When She Was Twelve
Co-Director of The Ailey School, Co-Chair of The Ailey/Fordham B.F.A. program, and former Dance Theatre of Harlem ballerina, Melanie Person answers ten questions: on leg extension, encouraging ballet students, what studios could do to better prepare students for college, and what she knew when she was twelve.
Do You Blog About Dance? Be One of the Top 20 of 2011
Enter your blog in our 2nd Annual Top Dance Blog contest. Real readers will choose their favorite blogs according to category and overall popularity. However, no blog is too small and every participant has something to gain, including a chance to engage and grow your audience. Don’t miss out! Enter now or share the event with your favorite dance blogger.
The Nutcracker: Unwrapped
Ever wondered what goes on behind-the-scenes of The Nutcracker in one of America’s largest ballet companies? From 7000 lbs of hand-torn snow to tangled flying cooks, take a peek, as we talk with Production Director, Tom Boyd and Wardrobe Manager, Laura Lynch.