People Play Dance Theatre

Tag: music

  • Level Up Your Home Dance Space

    Dancing at home is a great way to supplement your in-person practice, and even learn a few new steps. The problem is, that it’s not always easy to find the right space to dance at home.

    This post will take you through the ideal, set up for an at-home dance studio, and share some alternatives for what you can do when the ideal isn’t available.

    Full Range of Motion

    First and foremost, you need space to move in! This is unfortunately one of the hardest things to come by depending on your living arrangement and practicing in too confined of a space can have a negative impact on your range of motion. A garage space or lawn can be great alternatives if you don’t have enough room indoors.

    A Good Foundation

    Floors are one of the most important things for dancers to pay mind to. Unfortunately, most homes were not built with dance training in mind, and I would especially recommend against practicing on tile or concrete for prolonged periods. Fortunately, there are many options on the internet for portable dance flooring that can be used in small spaces. I have had much success in the past with an area rug in a garage space.

    Meet me at the Barre

    One of the greatest things you will ever bring into your home dance space is a solid barre. There are many portable options available online, or you can also make your own. I made my own glow-in-the-dark galaxy barre using a design I found online. Both options can be pricey, but there are also many household hacks that work too. I won’t be the first to tell you about how great the kitchen counter is as a barre.

    Look at Yourself

    Mirrors are essential for checking your alignment and body positions while dancing. Ideally, your mirror will be full length, but you may also find that multiple smaller mirrors at different angles work better for your space. I have also used my phone camera as a last resort when I’ve lived in apartments with no mirrors.

    Feel the Beat

    Every dancer has their own preference on how to set up their music and media. My biggest recommendation is that whatever you use, make sure you’ve got a designated raised-up space that keeps your devices off the dance floor. I have a tiered shelf that I like to use because I can keep my sound statin on top, and organize some extra accessories so I have more floor space to use.

    Check out this video to learn more!

  • 7 Tips for New Choreographers

    Choreography is a captivating art form that allows you to express yourself through movement, tell stories, and create visually stunning performances. If you’re a new choreographer looking to make your mark in the dance world, here are seven essential tips to help you succeed:

    1-Study Different Styles

    To become a versatile choreographer, immerse yourself in various dance styles. Learn the basics of ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, and other genres. This diverse knowledge will enable you to blend styles creatively and stand out in the industry.

    2-Seek Inspiration Everywhere

    Inspiration can strike at any moment. Be open to new experiences, cultures, and art forms. Watch dance performances, attend art exhibitions, or travel to unfamiliar places. These experiences can provide fresh ideas and perspectives for your choreography.

    3-Collaborate with Diverse Artists

    Collaboration is key to choreographic success. Work with dancers from different backgrounds and skill levels, as well as musicians, costume designers, and lighting technicians. Diverse input can lead to unique and groundbreaking creations.

    4-Choreograph to Music

    Choose music that resonates with your vision. Listen to the lyrics, melody, and rhythm, and allow them to influence your choreography. A strong connection between music and movement can enhance the emotional impact of your piece.

    5-Plan and Organize

    Choreographing a dance piece requires careful planning and organization. Create a clear vision for your piece, outline your ideas, and develop a timeline. Efficient organization ensures that you stay on track and meet deadlines.

    6-Embrace Failure and Adapt

    Not every idea will work perfectly. Be open to experimentation and willing to revise your choreography if necessary. Learning from your mistakes and adapting your work will help you grow as a choreographer.

    7-Seek Feedback and Learn Continuously

    Share your work in progress with trusted peers, mentors, and dancers. Constructive feedback can help you refine your choreography and improve your skills. Attend workshops, take classes, and stay up-to-date with dance trends to continue learning and evolving as a choreographer.

    In the world of choreography, creativity knows no bounds. Remember that every great choreographer started with a passion for movement and a willingness to explore. With dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to self-improvement, you can craft compelling dance pieces that leave a lasting impact on audiences and the dance community.

    Ready to get started with your next choreography project? You can find useful resources like the Choreography Planning and Design Worksheet in the People Play Dance Theatre shop.