DAN 233 - West African Dance Technique II (2 Cr.)

An intermediate-level course and further exploration of embodying the principles of West African movement and its socio-historical and cultural contexts in which the dances belong. Students will immerse in the study of select West African movements and rhythms and explore a burgeoning genre of West African dance influence. This class will prepare students to hone their skills and knowledge about traditional African dance performances and their accompanying rhythms. They will delve into composite traditional and neo-traditional performances to help understand the philosophical underpinnings of dances rooted in African cosmologies. Students will learn that history, knowledge, and systems of knowing are artistically constructed and embedded in traditional African dance forms. Repeatable up to three times for credit. Prerequisite: placement in DAN 233 or above. Spring semester. Program faculty.