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

Balancé is a technique in which dancers shift their weight from one foot to the other while maintaining a fluid and continuous movement.

George Balanchine is primarily known for his work in classical ballet, while Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham, and William Forsythe are all pioneers of contemporary dance.

A pirouette is a movement in which a dancer jumps into the air and turns their body in a complete circle.

Contemporary dance often explores themes of identity, relationships, and politics, but it is less common for it to draw inspiration from classical mythology.

Pas de bourrée is a technique in which dancers move in a series of quick, successive steps, often with their feet close to the ground.

Merce Cunningham is known for his use of improvisation in his work, often allowing his dancers to create their own movements within a set structure.

Rond de jambe is a movement in which a dancer moves their leg in a circular motion, often with their knee bent.

Ballet companies are typically focused on classical ballet, while contemporary dance companies can be repertory companies, project-based companies, or touring companies.

Entrechat is a technique in which dancers move in a series of quick, successive jumps, often with their legs extended.

Yvonne Rainer is known for her work with the Judson Dance Theater, a group of avant-garde dancers who challenged traditional notions of dance.

Port de bras is a movement in which a dancer moves their arm in a circular motion, often with their elbow bent.

Full-length ballets are typically associated with classical ballet, while contemporary dance performances can be site-specific, improvisational, or in the form of dance films.

Fouetté is a technique in which dancers move their legs in a series of quick, successive kicks.

Trisha Brown is known for her work with the Merce Cunningham Dance Company, where she was a principal dancer and choreographer.