Question 1: Describe the significance of the Ballets Russes in the development of 20th-century dance.

Answer: The Ballets Russes was a pioneering ballet company founded in 1909 that introduced innovative choreography, set designs, and collaborations with artists like Picasso and Stravinsky. It played a crucial role in modernizing ballet and influenced future dance styles.

Question 2: Identify three key features of the dance style known as 'Jazz Dance' that emerged in the early 20th century.

Answer: Energetic movements, improvisation, and a focus on rhythmic expression are key features of Jazz Dance. It often incorporates isolations and syncopated rhythms.

Question 3: Explain how the development of modern dance in the early 1900s challenged traditional ballet norms.

Answer: Modern dance focused on personal expression, natural movement, and individual creativity, rejecting the formal, structured techniques of classical ballet. Pioneers like Martha Graham emphasized emotional depth and movement that reflected human experiences.

Question 4: Discuss the cultural impact of the Harlem Renaissance on dance in the 1920s.

Answer: The Harlem Renaissance celebrated African American culture and led to the popularity of styles like the Charleston and Lindy Hop. It promoted racial pride and influenced mainstream dance, integrating jazz and social dance forms.

Question 5: Draw a rough sketch of a traditional Indian dance pose, such as a classical Bharatanatyam stance. Ensure your sketch shows the position of the arms, legs, and head.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a dancer standing with one leg bent and the other straight, arms positioned with one hand near the waist and the other raised, fingers in a specific mudra, and the head turned slightly to one side with expressive facial expression.

Question 6: Describe the influence of African dance traditions on contemporary hip-hop dance styles.

Answer: African dance traditions contributed rhythmic complexity, polyrhythms, improvisation, and energetic movements to hip-hop. These elements helped shape the expressive and improvisational nature of modern hip-hop dance.

Question 7: Explain the significance of the 1960s 'Swing Revival' in dance history.

Answer: The Swing Revival of the 1960s reintroduced swing jazz and Lindy Hop to new audiences, emphasizing social dancing, improvisation, and energetic movements. It played a role in preserving and reinvigorating swing-era dance styles.

Question 8: Identify a key figure in the development of contemporary dance and describe their contribution.

Answer: Merce Cunningham was a key figure who revolutionized contemporary dance by emphasizing movement independent of music, using chance procedures, and collaborating with visual artists, expanding the possibilities of dance as an art form.

Question 9: Discuss how technological innovations have impacted dance performance and appreciation today.

Answer: Technological innovations like video recordings, digital choreography, and virtual performances have broadened access to dance, allowed for new creative possibilities, and enhanced audience engagement worldwide.

Question 10: Explain the role of social and political movements in shaping dance styles and themes during the 20th century.

Answer: Social and political movements such as civil rights, feminism, and anti-war protests influenced dance by inspiring themes of freedom, resistance, and social commentary. Dance became a medium for expressing collective identity and advocating change.