D A N C E R E V I V A L: Choreography of space for body mortion in Lenasia's first dance studio
Date
2019
Authors
Kasan, Poonam
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Abstract
As a dancer, I define dance as a form of release using
body movement in a space, whereas architecture is a form
of expression through designing a space. Since dance is
choreographed while architecture is conceptualized, it can
be said that both entail some level of creativity, especially
when fused together. Both have the ability to trace space
over time and employ effects of perception, point-of-view,
colour and light. Balance and movement are key aspects of
dance and can also be utilized in architecture with reference
to the center of gravity. Therefore, exploration lies in how
architecture or space can be created from the consequences
of body movement and the spatial experience of dance or
particular dance postures?
While the relevance of dance in South Africa is questioned
by many non-dancers, Indian classical dance in Lenasia
still thrives to remain alive. Together with many other folk
dances performed at festivals in the community, these dance
schools are all that remain of the Indian dance culture today.
Nevertheless, even though Indian dance schools are willing
to teach students western or other dance forms, appropriate
dance studios, funding and support does not exist to turn
dance into a professional career. Some Indian communities
also have a stereotyped mindset which even prohibits men
and married women from dancing.
Therefore, this dance inspired architectural studio will not only
provide spacious training facilities, but will also aim at raising
awareness and funds for those who wish to take dance further
into a career, educate those about the benefits of dance and
provide opportunities for international choreographers to
train local dancers in other dance forms, thus reviving dance
together as a whole. Since dancers are more in harmony with
their bodies, architecture and the interaction of space will be
ultimately viewed and designed through this unique lens of
dance movement
Description
This document is submitted in partial fulfillment for the degree:
Master of Architecture (Professional) at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, 2018.
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Citation
Kasan, Poonam Bharatkumar (2019) Dance revival :|bchoreography of space for body motion in Lenasia's first Dance Studio, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, <http://hdl.handle.net/10539/278778>