Initial Ruptures of Choreographic Practice

This chapter explores the basic origins and definitions of dance, with a focus on how choreographic practice has emerged and developed pedagogically. The development of dance education and the connection to choreographic practice are first considered through European perspectives. Europe is highlighted, at this stage, given its significance as a conduit for codifying dance especially in the development of modern dance. The chapter follows the emergence of dance education as a way of increasing choreographic possibilities leading to the codification of classical ballet. The chapter then travels to the United States exploring the strong influences on the beginnings of modern dance, choreographically and in the development of dance education, especially within the university sector. This evolution established movement techniques that were codified to aid in the choreographic developments of some of the more renowned contemporary dance figures. The chapter centres on how choreographic practice is entwined with educative dance processes, as depicted in the chapter opening figure.