Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Department

Theatre and Dance

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

This research explores the relationship between tap dance and ballet, two genres of dance often viewed as polar opposites—if they are considered to have any relationship at all. Qualitative research methods were used throughout this process, including consulting texts and videos, conducting ethnographic research by attending the Woodshed Experience tap dance intensive, and choreographing a dance work featuring both tap and ballet dancers. This project investigates the relationship between the genres in the areas of technique, choreography, and pedagogy. There is significant overlap in the techniques of tap dance and ballet in the areas of musicality, polyrhythmic expression, isolated muscle contraction, and performance quality. While putting tap dance and ballet onstage together provides the challenge of seamless integration, it has been done successfully, as seen in Christopher Wheeldon’s ballet Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The pedagogical practices common to tap dance and ballet differ greatly; however, to preserve the health of its students, the ballet classroom would benefit from instructors incorporating some of the more inclusive practices of tap dance pedagogy. These findings demonstrate the existence of a significant relationship between tap dance and ballet, promoting the conclusion that the dance student would benefit from studying both genres simultaneously.

Advisor(s) or Committee Chair

Amanda Clark, M.F.A.

Disciplines

Dance | Education | Performance Studies

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