Qualities of Movement

For our first class we decided to focus on some of the basic elements of dance. We explored the six energy qualities of movement which include sustain, suspend, swing and sway, collapse, vibrate and percussive movement.

Before we started dancing we explored what we thought the different words meant. We were then able to explore all six of the qualities on different body parts. Some of their favorite movements were collapsing our whole body and swaying our heads. Next, the students got into groups of four and started to explore flocking. Flocking is when the students stand in a diamond shape all facing the same direction. Three of the four follow the movement of the person in front. As the movement changes directions, the leader will change depending on who's in the front of the diamond shape.

Then each student found a partner. One partner chose two energy qualities they wanted to dance while the other got a piece of paper and pencil. The student who was observing drew what they saw their partner dancing. It was a lot of fun, and the students ended up with some cool drawings. Here are just a few of the students drawings. 

To end the lesson the students got in groups of 3 or 4 to choreograph their own dances including the energy qualities we explored during the lesson. They had to choose at least three different qualities to show their peers. After the performances the audience had to say which qualities they saw during the performance. The dances were so much fun to watch, and the students really got into it. One dance included a fun "hey!" to enhance the percussive movement they were exploring. 

This was such an great way to start off the semester. I was blown away by the creativity of these students and am excited to see them each week.