Modern/Contemporary Dance emphasizes the body’s relationship to physical forces such as gravity and momentum, and the expressive potential of the torso.
Modern/Contemporary Dance for the very young child
For students up to age 7, Caulfield School of Dance offers introduction to Modern/Contemporary dance skills in Stage courses.
Stage dance courses include Jazz/ Lyrical dance styles, Hip Hop, some Modern/ Contemporary dance technique, and basic Acrobatic skills, all with an emphasis on expression.
For ages 4 to 7, our Pre-Primary/Primary Stage programs are once-a-week courses which provide an introduction to Stage Dance. The children prepare a performance piece drawing on the skills learned in the course for our annual spring stage production, an exciting experience that develops memory, musicality, team building, and self-confidence.
Modern/Contemporary Dance for students aged 8 and up
Modern/Contemporary Technique courses teach both “classic” Modern dance technique (based on Graham, Cunningham, Horton, and Limon styles), and the movement vocabulary of its present day descendant, Contemporary dance, which incorporates jazz dance technique and some acrobatics. These courses also include movement exploration, guided improvisation, partnering skills, and repertoire.
Modern/Contemporary dance trainings part of both the Classical and Commercial streams of the Half Day Training option.
Taking a Modern Technique course is advisable for all advanced dance students as it develops improvisation, floor work, and other skills that are increasingly necessary for all forms of dance.
All Modern/Contemporary Performing courses prepare a performance piece for our annual spring stage production. Some levels also compete.
Because ballet is the root form of most of the technical elements of Modern/Contemporary dance, Ballet Technique training is indispensable for any level of mastery in Modern/Contemporary dance. Students taking any Modern Jazz or Modern/Contemporary courses are well advised to take Acro Technique courses and Jazz Technique courses too.
As “Technique only” courses only focus on developing dance (especially jumps, kicks, and turns) skills, co-ordination, strength (especially of the core), and acrobatic skills, they do not prepare pieces for performing.
The Half Day Training Option allows for professional preparation in Modern/Contemporary dance.
Private or Semiprivate instruction available* in all disciplines to develop skills or to prepare performing pieces.
Adult Modern Jazz courses also available.
* Subject to scheduling availability.