Theater and Dance 255 - Dance: A Global Movement

What if dance was more than just movement? What if it were history, resistance, and storytelling--embodied? In this course, we will explore dance as a force that shapes culture, challenges norms, and brings people together. From sacred rituals to viral dance trends, from concert stages to underground clubs, students will examine how movement speaks louder than words and the artistic innovations that shape it. We will investigate dance as a tool for activism, a mirror of society, and a global language of expression that transcends borders. Through video screenings, interactive discussions, hands-on movement experiences, and creative projects. students will analyze, experience, and create original movement as a form of cultural dialogue. From belly dance to breakdancing, we will trace the evolution of dance across the world--examining how artists like Martha Graham (U.S.), Kyle Abraham (U.S.), Pearl Primus (Trinadad and Tobago/U.S.), Dada Masilo (South Africa), Akhran Khan (U.K.), Tatsumi Hijikata (Japan), Germaine Acogny (Senegal), Crystal Pite (Canada), and Lin Hwai-min (Taiwan) have used movement to redefine art and identity.  No dance experience required. Two class meetings per week. Fall semester. Five College Dance Lecturer Torres.

How to handle overenrollment: THDA majors given priority. Instructor will choose students based on a balance of interests and class years.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: This course requires regular attendance and class participation, class discussion, and reading, viewing and writing assignments. It will also include group assignments outside of class.