Dance Theory: Form and Structure

A motif is the smallest unit of dance movement that can be repeated or varied.

A phrase is a series of movements that are repeated in a dance.

A section is a series of phrases that are repeated in a dance.

Form is the overall structure of a dance.

The three main types of dance form are narrative, abstract, and dramatic.

A narrative dance is a dance that tells a story.

An abstract dance is a dance that does not tell a story.

A dramatic dance is a dance that is based on a dramatic theme.

A lyrical dance is a dance that is based on a lyrical theme.

The three main elements of dance form are time, space, and energy.

Tempo is the term for the way that dancers use time in a dance.

Level is the term for the way that dancers use space in a dance.

Force is the term for the way that dancers use energy in a dance.

The three main principles of dance composition are unity, variety, and contrast.

Repetition is the term for the way that dancers create a sense of unity in a dance.

Variation is the term for the way that dancers create a sense of variety in a dance.

Contrast is the term for the way that dancers create a sense of contrast in a dance.