Dance is a performing art form consisting of purposefully selected sequences of individual movement. This movement has beautiful and symbolic value and is recognised as a dance by performers and observers within a particular culture. Dance can be classified and described by its choreography, by its repertoire of movements, or by its historical period or place of origin.
A crucial distinction is to be drawn between the contexts of theatrical and participatory dance, although these two categories are not always entirely separate; both may have special functions, whether social, conventional, competitive, erotic, martial, or sacred/liturgical. Other forms of human movement are seldom said to have a dance-like quality, including martial arts, gymnastics, cheerleading, figure skating, synchronised swimming, marching bands, and many other forms of athletics.
The dance can be performed to serve numerous functions but it also has two different forms – theatrical dance in which dancers perform for an audience, and participatory social dance where dancing in a group is encouraged to anyone. Participatory dances are most commonly found at weddings, social gatherings, and celebrations, and they can be enjoyed with folk music both alone or in a group.
Theatrical dance is recognised for having more elaborate choreography, planning, costume, scenery and other components that make the entire production feel more professional. The performers of theatrical dance are usually professional " virtuoso dancers", who practice their craft over the years, and are often tasked to interpret the musical accompaniment with excellent dance moves or routines.
Why Dance Is Important
Even though another career path may eventually be chosen, in dance children learn the collaborative effort required to produce a high-quality work of art. Every child benefits from quality dance training. Long-term learnings go far beyond functional applications in dance. Dancers enter the community with the capacity to maintain the uncompromising high standards nurtured during their dance training.
Creative reasoning skills are developed through dance, as well as learning the value of discipline, commitment and work ethic. Self-confidence develops as young people overcome hurdles to master new goals, learning to apply themselves and accomplish any task put before them. Dance teaches youngsters about music, rhythm and beat. Students also have a better understanding of spatial links and learn to think with both sides of their brain. All these skills enhance a child's academic performance, as well as their physical well-being.
Dance keeps you fit! Dance teaches the importance of movement and fitness in a variety of ways through a variety of disciplines. As well, dancers learn to coordinate muscles to move through proper positions. Dancing is a great exercise to pursue at almost any age provided you are in proper health to handle the rigours of dancing for life.
All in all, dance is a great way to build invaluable social skills. Much more importantly, however, it is an opportunity to teach your children the importance of being part of something larger than themselves. Dancers learn to take turns, to share attention, and to cooperate with others as they work within a group. These life lessons are part of the appeal of dance classes to parents around the world. Much like team sports, dance for children can teach some invaluable and important lessons.
