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The Evolution of Aesthetic and Expressive Dance in Boston: A Student Edition

Ervin Bell

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Dance has been an integral part of Boston's cultural landscape since the city's founding. From its early beginnings in the Puritan era to its contemporary manifestations, Boston has been a hub for dance innovation and creativity. This article will explore the history and evolution of aesthetic and expressive dance in Boston, from its early beginnings to its contemporary manifestations.

The Evolution of Aesthetic and Expressive Dance in Boston, Student Edition

by Lorcan Collins

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1350 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	184 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Early Beginnings

The earliest forms of dance in Boston were largely recreational and social in nature. Puritan settlers, who arrived in the city in the 1630s, viewed dance with suspicion, believing it to be a sinful and frivolous activity. However, dance continued to be practiced in private homes and at social gatherings.

In the 18th century, dance began to take on a more formal and structured form in Boston. Dancing schools were established, and professional dancers began to perform in theaters and ballrooms. The most popular dances of the era included the minuet, the waltz, and the quadrille.

The 19th Century

The 19th century saw a significant growth in the popularity of dance in Boston. The city's first ballet company, the Boston Ballet, was founded in 1840. The company performed a variety of classical and romantic ballets, and quickly became one of the leading ballet companies in the United States.

Other forms of dance also flourished in Boston during the 19th century. Tap dance, which originated in African-American communities, became popular in the city's vaudeville theaters. Social dances, such as the polka and the schottische, were also widely enjoyed.

The 20th Century

The 20th century was a time of great innovation and experimentation in dance in Boston. The city's first modern dance company, the Boston Modern Dance Company, was founded in 1932. The company performed a variety of modern dance works, including pieces by Martha Graham, Doris Humphrey, and Merce Cunningham.

Other modern dance companies that emerged in Boston during the 20th century included the Jose Limon Company, the Merce Cunningham Dance Company, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. These companies helped to establish Boston as a major center for modern dance.

In addition to modern dance, a number of other dance styles emerged in Boston during the 20th century. Jazz dance, which originated in African-American communities, became popular in the city's nightclubs and theaters. Hip-hop dance, which originated in the Bronx in the 1970s, also became popular in Boston.

The 21st Century

The 21st century has seen the continued growth and diversification of dance in Boston. The city is now home to a wide variety of dance companies, schools, and studios. These organizations offer a variety of dance classes, workshops, and performances.

One of the most significant developments in dance in Boston in the 21st century has been the growth of dance education. A number of colleges and universities in the city now offer dance programs. These programs provide students with the opportunity to study dance history, theory, and technique.

Dance has been an integral part of Boston's cultural landscape for centuries. From its early beginnings in the Puritan era to its contemporary manifestations, Boston has been a hub for dance innovation and creativity. The city's rich dance history is reflected in the wide variety of dance companies, schools, and studios that are active in the city today.

The Evolution of Aesthetic and Expressive Dance in Boston, Student Edition

by Lorcan Collins

5 out of 5