Today we are exploring some of the basic forms we make in space and how we get there, and what the point of all this is in terms of dance technique, expression, and performance.

Modes of changing shape

In ballet, we see spoking movements mostly in the legs, such as in pas de cheval, frappé, and developpé, we practice arcing movements in steps such as port de bras, tendu, degage, & grand battement and carving can be observed in steps such as Rond de jambe, coupé jeté, & renversé,

“This Opening/Closing can be felt or spoken about more specifically in terms which describe ‘toward where’ the shape is changing--the essential spatial pull which is coloring the expressive quality of the movement. These pulls are related to a Dimensional matrix in space." (Making Connections p.222)

This language is helpful in learning dance technique and choreography, as well as choreography.

For more about Space and specific Shapes we make in dance:

Blythe Stephens, MFA