0

Exploring the Nuances of Contemporary Dance

Description: This quiz delves into the intricacies of contemporary dance, exploring its unique characteristics, historical context, and influential figures.
Number of Questions: 15
Created by:
Tags: contemporary dance dance history dance techniques dance aesthetics
Attempted 0/15 Correct 0 Score 0

Which of the following is NOT a defining characteristic of contemporary dance?

  1. Emphasis on individual expression

  2. Rejection of traditional ballet techniques

  3. Use of improvisation and spontaneity

  4. Strict adherence to classical forms


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Contemporary dance is characterized by its break from traditional ballet techniques and its focus on individual expression and experimentation.

Which historical event is often cited as a catalyst for the emergence of contemporary dance?

  1. The French Revolution

  2. The Industrial Revolution

  3. World War I

  4. The Great Depression


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

World War I had a profound impact on the arts, leading to a questioning of traditional values and a desire for new forms of expression. This contributed to the rise of contemporary dance.

Which of the following is NOT a prominent technique used in contemporary dance?

  1. Floor work

  2. Contact improvisation

  3. Ballet steps

  4. Release technique


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Contemporary dance often incorporates elements from various dance styles, but it is not defined by the use of ballet steps.

Who is considered one of the pioneers of contemporary dance?

  1. Martha Graham

  2. Merce Cunningham

  3. Alvin Ailey

  4. Twyla Tharp


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Martha Graham is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in the development of contemporary dance.

Which of the following is a key element of Ausdruckstanz, a precursor to contemporary dance?

  1. Emphasis on emotional expression

  2. Use of abstract movement

  3. Rejection of traditional ballet techniques

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Ausdruckstanz, which emerged in early 20th-century Germany, emphasized emotional expression, abstract movement, and a break from traditional ballet techniques.

What is the term for the use of everyday movements and gestures in contemporary dance?

  1. Natural movement

  2. Found movement

  3. Improvised movement

  4. Somatic movement


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Found movement refers to the incorporation of everyday movements and gestures into contemporary dance.

Which of the following is NOT a common theme explored in contemporary dance?

  1. Social issues

  2. Political issues

  3. Personal experiences

  4. Abstract concepts


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Contemporary dance often explores social, political, and personal themes, but it is not limited to abstract concepts.

What is the term for a dance that is created collaboratively by the dancers?

  1. Collective creation

  2. Collaborative choreography

  3. Devised dance

  4. Improvisational dance


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Collective creation refers to a dance that is created through a collaborative process involving the dancers.

Which of the following is NOT a type of contemporary dance company?

  1. Repertory company

  2. Project-based company

  3. Touring company

  4. Ballet company


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Ballet companies focus on classical ballet, while contemporary dance companies explore a wide range of styles and techniques.

What is the term for a dance that is performed in a non-traditional space?

  1. Site-specific dance

  2. Environmental dance

  3. Outdoor dance

  4. Street dance


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Site-specific dance is a type of contemporary dance that is created for a specific location and takes into account the unique characteristics of that space.

Which of the following is NOT a major contemporary dance festival?

  1. American Dance Festival

  2. Edinburgh Fringe Festival

  3. Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival

  4. New York City Ballet Winter Season


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The New York City Ballet Winter Season is a ballet festival, while the other options are major contemporary dance festivals.

What is the term for a dance that is created in response to a specific social or political issue?

  1. Political dance

  2. Social dance

  3. Activist dance

  4. Documentary dance


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Political dance is a type of contemporary dance that directly addresses social or political issues.

Which of the following is NOT a common type of collaboration in contemporary dance?

  1. Dance and music

  2. Dance and visual art

  3. Dance and theater

  4. Dance and film


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Dance and film collaboration is less common in contemporary dance compared to the other options.

What is the term for a dance that is created through a process of improvisation?

  1. Improvisational dance

  2. Spontaneous dance

  3. Free-form dance

  4. Extemporaneous dance


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Improvisational dance refers to a dance that is created spontaneously, often without any predetermined choreography.

Which of the following is NOT a major contemporary dance company in the United States?

  1. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

  2. Martha Graham Dance Company

  3. Merce Cunningham Dance Company

  4. New York City Ballet


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The New York City Ballet is a ballet company, while the other options are major contemporary dance companies in the United States.

- Hide questions