With the Holiday Showcase fast approaching we want to remember one of the important aspects of performance dancing, expression. Particularly with show dancing we want to remember that our movement can tell a story, relate a style, feeling or emotion. In order to do so we must train and develop the aspects of our dancing that are more akin to acting.
Our face is one of the most powerful tools in creating effective expression in your dancing. As in a simple interaction or conversation, your face can reveal your thoughts and feelings. The eyes and mouth are ever changing, it is often thought that you should dance with a smile plastered on your face, but this creates an inauthenticity, while it is better than a grimace, it is only just better. Our faces expressions are constantly changing, and as we dance we want to make sure those natural transitions are evident. We also want to be sure if we are performing, be it on stage or in the studio, that our expressions are clear and never subtle. It will feel completely over the top because we need our dance expressions to carry not just to our partner, but to an audience at large.
Having a clear idea of the particular story of each dance will also help in creating the fullest expression. What is the nature of the dance you are dancing, is it fun, playful, sexy, flirtatious. Keeping this in mind can create an intention that will carry and translate to an audience. You will create a more effective routine in any style of dance if you give some attention to the story or style of the dance itself.
As always we must understand that to be an accomplished dancer there are many aspects to be developed, we must work on partnering and timing, we learn combinations and techniques. All of these aspects are important, dancing in a show setting is simply another opportunity to develop yet another aspect, expression. Remember not to hold back, it may feel a bit over the top, but in performance your must be sure that the message you are sharing with your audience comes across loud and clear.
Lawrence is a teacher at Dance Station. If you would like to take lessons with Lawrence or any of our teachers call 505-989-9788 to schedule.
