Is Dance A Universal Language? - Global Contemporary Dance

From its origins, a core value of contemporary dance is rebellion. The definition of contemporary dance has evolved throughout the decades as dancers continue to discover innovative movements that almost contradict their predecessors, inspiring its ever-evolving aesthetic. Unlike other technical styles like ballet, there is no strict codified “right” or “wrong,” nor is there a set vocabulary, meaning contemporary dance can look like a lot of things. A common conception when it comes to dance in general is how it transcends nationalities as a universal language of sorts. However, given the individualistic nature of contemporary dance and global varieties of culture I sought to prove how dance may not be as universal as it is commonly deemed. How does the concept of ethnography (the study of social and behavioral differences amongst cultures) apply to contemporary dancers across the globe? While training in the beautiful northern Italian countryside at Orsolina 28, I explored what factors (including technique, artistry, approach, etc.) distinguish contemporary dancers in their training. Through reflection of my personal training in the United States doing competition dance and now collegiate dance and surveys of peers from around the world, I was able to draw comparisons of priorities when it comes to contemporary dance training.