Katherine
DUNHAM
Technique Class
Katherine Dunham introduced African and Caribbean rhythms to modern dance. The schools she created helped train such notables as Alvin Ailey and Jerome Robbins in the "Dunham technique." This technique concentrates on building strength, flexibility, and the ability to undulate your torso and hips fully and rapidly. With live drumming, students will be fully immersed in the magic of the Dunham technique, a modern dance style that brought together African dance, Caribbean dance, social dance, and concert dance. It is the fusion of polyrhythms and steps drawing from ancient ceremonial dances and European-style dance forms.
Class Details:
Katherine Dunham Technique - Saturday, May 4 | 12-1:30pm | $18
More about Katherine Dunham Technique
The Dunham technique, developed by Katherine Dunham, is a distinctive approach to modern dance that places emphasis on building strength, flexibility, and the ability to undulate the torso and hips with full and rapid movements. This technique is a testament to Dunham's commitment to blending diverse cultural elements into a cohesive dance style that transcends traditional boundaries.
One of the key features of the Dunham technique is its incorporation of live drumming, which adds a dynamic and immersive element to the learning experience. The rhythmic beats provide a visceral connection to the roots of African and Caribbean dance, enhancing the magic of the Dunham technique.
At its core, the Dunham technique represents a fusion of polyrhythms and steps derived from a rich tapestry of influences, including ancient ceremonial dances and European-style dance forms. This amalgamation creates a unique and vibrant dance style that seamlessly weaves together the diverse cultural threads that Katherine Dunham sought to celebrate.
The legacy of Katherine Dunham lives on through the continued practice and teaching of the Dunham technique. Students who engage with this modern dance style are not only learning a set of movements but are also immersing themselves in a cultural journey that spans continents and centuries. The Dunham technique remains a powerful testament to the ability of dance to bridge gaps, celebrate diversity, and create a harmonious fusion of artistic expression.