Dances in India

Top 10 differences between Classical Dance and Contemporary Dance Styles :

Technique: 

Classical: Ballet prioritises turnout (legs rotated outwards), high extensions, and pointe work (dancing on the toes). 

Contemporary: This dance explores a wider range of movement possibilities, including floor work, sharp contractions, and improvisation.

Body Alignment: 

Classical: Ballet emphasises a lengthened spine and lifted posture.

Contemporary:This dance allows for a more natural alignment, incorporating elements like rolling on the spine or asymmetrical positions.

Footwork: 

Classical: Ballet features specific footwork patterns and intricate jumps.

Contemporary: This dance utilizes a broader range of footwork, including walking, running, and even stamping.

Costumes: 

Classical: Ballet dancers wear specialized attire like tutus and pointe shoes for females, and tights and tunics for males. 

Contemporary: Costumes can be anything, from everyday clothing to elaborate, conceptual pieces, often chosen to enhance the message being conveyed.

Music: 

Classical: Ballet uses classical scores specifically composed or chosen to complement the story and movement. 

Contemporary: dance can use any type of music, including electronic soundscapes, silence, or even live musicians interacting with the dancers.

Structure: 

Classical: Ballet choreography is highly structured, with set routines and formations. 

Contemporary: dance can be more fluid and improvisational, allowing for more freedom in movement and exploration.

Emotional Expression: 

Classical: Ballet traditionally expresses emotions within the context of a predetermined narrative. 

Contemporary: dance uses movement to convey a wider range of emotions and ideas, even abstract concepts.

Performance Space: 

Classical: Ballet is typically performed on a raised stage with specific lighting.

Contemporary: This dance can be performed anywhere, from traditional stages to unconventional spaces, incorporating multimedia elements.

Emphasis: 

Classical: Ballet focuses on technical mastery and preserving established traditions. 

Contemporary: This dance prioritizes personal expression, innovation, and challenging boundaries.

Audience Expectation: 

Classical: Ballet audiences generally anticipate a graceful and virtuosic display within a familiar story. 

Contemporary: This dance audience may be open to a wider range of movement vocabularies, themes, and unconventional presentations.