The Art of Making Dances summary

Exploring the Creative Process of Dance

In The Art of Making Dances, Doris Humphrey, a pioneer of modern dance, takes us on a journey through the creative process of choreography. She begins by discussing the fundamental elements of dance - space, time, and force - and how they are manipulated to create movement. She emphasizes that dance is not about steps, but about the intention behind the movement.

Humphrey delves into the role of the choreographer, highlighting the need for a clear concept or idea to guide the creation of a dance. She encourages choreographers to fully understand their chosen concept and allow it to shape the movement, rather than imposing preconceived steps onto it.

The Role of the Body in Dance

One of the central themes in The Art of Making Dances is the role of the body in dance. Humphrey argues that the human body is the ultimate instrument for expressing ideas and emotions through movement. She discusses the importance of understanding the body's capabilities and limitations, and how this knowledge can be used to create powerful, evocative choreography.

Humphrey also emphasizes the significance of the body's relationship to gravity. She believes that a dancer should be aware of and work with gravity, rather than fighting against it. By doing so, the dancer's movements become more grounded and authentic, leading to a deeper connection with the audience.

The Creative Process in Choreography

As The Art of Making Dances progresses, Humphrey delves deeper into the creative process of choreography. She discusses the importance of improvisation as a tool for generating movement and exploring ideas. She also emphasizes the value of collaboration, believing that working with other dancers can lead to richer, more varied choreography.

Humphrey describes her own choreographic process, which involves a careful balance of planning and spontaneity. She stresses the importance of allowing the dance to evolve naturally, rather than forcing it into a predetermined shape. She believes that this approach results in more organic, authentic movement.

The Evolution of Modern Dance

Throughout The Art of Making Dances, Humphrey provides valuable insights into the evolution of modern dance. She discusses the influence of various dance forms and cultural movements on the development of modern dance, and how it has evolved into a distinct and powerful art form.

In conclusion, The Art of Making Dances offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the creative process of choreography. Humphrey's deep understanding of the art of dance, combined with her innovative approach to movement, makes this book an essential read for anyone interested in the theory and practice of choreography.