@The Arts Unit Creative Classes
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Perform and appreciate the iconic Fosse style
Perform and appreciate the iconic Fosse style
Student dance resource developed by The Arts Unit
Years 7 to 10 dance
What will I learn?
What will I learn?
Let’s Fosse is a jazz dance tutorial that is designed for students in Stage 4 and 5 dance. Students will develop knowledge, skills and understanding of the Fosse dance style.
You will:
explore dance technique and the elements of dance as influenced by performance and theatrical style
perform dances with increasing confidence, communicating the intention of the choreographer
apply the elements of space, time and dynamics to dance performance to personalise dance movement
differentiate and make connections between the social and historical contexts of dance and the development of style.
Photo credit: Anna Warr
Before you begin
Before you begin
You will need:
an open space to dance safely
document or slide presentation software
a hat – preferably with a brim the whole way around.
Safety tips for online movement classes if you wish to participate
Safety tips for online movement classes if you wish to participate
When you decide to take part in these activities you agree to the following:
You have been given approval from your parent/caregiver prior
You will clear a spot big enough to give you space to move around. Be sure there are no coffee tables, plants or chairs in the way.
Be aware of any pets or small humans that may sneak into your dance space.
Check the height of ceiling fans and light fittings so the area is clear as you reach above your head.
You will wear comfortable clothing that allows a full range of movement.
This will include appropriate footwear:
Sneakers, socks, ballet slippers, jazz shoes or bare feet.
You may have to adjust based on the flooring you are dancing on.
Bare feet may be better than ballet slippers on a slippery floor. Socks may be better on carpet.
Be careful if you are on a rug on a slippery floor.
If you have an injury or a medical condition please follow the advice of your health professional. It is suggested you view the exercises beforehand and adjust according to your limitations. Ask your parent/caregiver if you are unsure.
Please stay safe, listen carefully to all the instructions.
If you study dance please think about your knowledge of safe dance practice as you execute the instructions.
- Research
Research Bob Fosse and his influence and contribution to the jazz dance style.
Watch the video of Bob Fosse’s The Rich Man’s Frug.
Describe the characteristics of the style.
Bob Fosse dance numbers – The Rich Man's Frug
Duration: 05:512. Learn and perform
2. Learn and perform
Watch the Blackbird in the style of Bob Fosse dance tutorial from Kira Nelson and follow her teacher instructions to learn the movement.
Record yourself performing the movement and send to your teacher.
Pay particular attention to the stylised movement of the hands, twisting torso and hip and knee placement.
Identify the characteristics of the Fosse style in this tutorial.
Reflect on your ability to perform these.
Are they different from the style of the dance that you usually do? How and why?
Blackbird in the style of Bob Fosse
Duration: 19:573. Analyse
3. Analyse
Watch the video of A Musical performed by the Musical Theatre and Tap Ensemble from the 2017 Schools Spectacular, choreographed by Sophie Holloway and Brad Green.
A Musical is a song from the musical Something Rotten.
Something Rotten gets much of its clever humour by satirising a cavalcade of well-known Broadway musical classics. It simultaneously celebrates and sends up everything we hold dear about big Broadway hits, from Bob Fosse 'jazz hands' to the synchronized kicks of a chorus line.
Schools Spectacular 2017 – A Musical
Duration: 05:15Watch the video of All That Fosse from the 2019 State Dance Festival, performed by students in Years 8 to 10 from the Dance Off Troupe and choreographed by Kim Rhodes and Launcelot Roma.
All that Fosse pays homage to the influence, choreography and unique style of prolific choreographer of stage and screen, Bob Fosse. The piece celebrates Fosse's creativity, vision and significant influence in popular culture.
2019 State Dance Festival – All That Fosse
Dance Off TroupeDuration: 04:05
Discuss how the choreographers use the Fosse characteristics in these performances and evaluate their effectiveness.
In your answer, use specific movement examples from the works.
Watch the video of Finesse by the NSW Public Schools Urban Dance Crew from the 2019 State Dance Festival, choreographed by Neale Whittaker and Pete Evans.
Finesse is loosely inspired by Bob Fosse’s 'The Rich Man’s Frug'. The piece explores storytelling through movement in a fun, playful and quirky way.
2019 State Dance Festival – Finesse
NSW Public Schools Urban Dance CrewDuration: 04:44
Discuss the use of the fusion between the Fosse characteristics and the hip hop style performed.
What is the effectiveness of this fusion?
How have the choreographers kept the Fosse look and feel of the piece?
Stretch out those 'jazz hands' and celebrate!
You have completed this
@The Arts Unit Creative Class.
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