Technical Skills in Dance
Technical skills represent the specific tools you need to execute dance effectively. Rhythmic content helps you maintain timing and interpret musical structures. The actions you perform (jumps, turns, gestures) must be precise and well-executed.
How you use space (levels, directions, pathways) adds dimension to your performance. Dancing in a stylistically accurate way means respecting the traditions and characteristics of your dance form. Dynamics (how you manipulate energy, force and speed) create contrast and interest in your movement.
Understanding relationships with other dancers and elements helps create cohesive performances, while timing ensures your movements synchronize properly with music and other dancers. These technical skills give you the vocabulary to express yourself effectively through dance.
Quick check: When learning choreography, identify which technical skills each section emphasizes to help focus your practice more effectively.