Fusion Dance

Fusion Dance takes the same kind of serious turn away from the classic style of ballroom dance by allowing dance partners freedom of movement and improvisational style that comes from deep within the creative layers of dancers' souls.

Fusion Dance appeals to college students, dance instructors, dance companies and professional ballroom dancers mainly due to the freedom performers have to create a signature style that helps achieve higher ranking in the dance world. The accent in Fusion Dance is on the word fusion. It is human instinctive for those with a musical ear to move to music in an improvisational way. Young children learn to do this as soon as they can walk. Fusion Dance is a freestyle dance movement that encourages individuals to listen to a piece of music and fit dance motion to it.

CONTENT

The History of Fusion Dance

Ruth St. Denis and Ted Shawn made a erious turn away from classical ballet to create modern dance. Although it was based on ballet syllabus, there was an element of free style that is similar to Fusion Dance today. The beauty of the art form of Fusion Dance is found in its history. As more freedom of movement and improvisation evolved in classic dance, Fusion Dance combined various ethnic dance forms of India, modern dance and western style dance choreography.

Due to the fact that much of the syllabus in Fusion Dance is a blend of ethnic and classical dance genres, it creates one of the most popular and interesting dance forms today. If you have a keen eye for spotting the blend of Latin ballroom styles like tango and salsa, you cannot fail to notice the origins of native Latin dance movement in Fusion Dance. This is also true of fusing Middle Eastern body movements with jazz and blues technique. Blues technique originates from the Deep South in the U.S. Middle Eastern dance is one of history's oldest forms of dance movement that was part of religious rituals.

In terms of Fusion Dance history, it should also be noted that Dragon Ball is credited with introducing today's Fusion Dance. Dragon Ball, for the uninitiated, is an illustrated Japanese serial created by Akira Toriyama in 1984 who wrote, illustrated and serialized the story lines, characters and plots.

Fusion Dance Technique and Steps

It is important to understand the cohesion of Fusion Dance with other factors including:

• Improvisation
• Technique
• Music
• Correlation of dance movement with a theme or story line

Improvisation in dance is the ability to hear and sense from within how the body adapts to musical rhythm and tempo. For example, if the musical rhythm and tempo inspire dance partners to sway slowly as they perform Fusion Dance steps, they are free to improvise as their senses motivate them.

Fusion Dance technique is borne of a desire to move in an instinctive way to music. So it may incorporate sets of dance techniques that overlap either with a partner or in a choreographed dance routine for a group of dancers. Fusion dancers are referred to as Gems, presumably named for gemstones.

In terms of actual Fusion Dance technique, it depends on the psychological reaction of performers as they react to music they hear. Actual steps in Fusion Dance may be an adaptation of that seen in Dragon Ball such as lifting the knees in the air, using arms in opposition to a partner's as you simultaneously take three steps toward your partner. However, because Fusion Dance is stylized by each performer, these steps may be embellished as part of personal technique.

Music of Fusion Dance

Fusion Dances is today's modernistic blend of dance movement to several types of music. For example, if a Fusion Dance choreographer wishes to created a dance routine with the theme or story line such as Calypso Ritual, the music would have a West Indian or Caribbean sound.

Fusion dancers improvise their movements with hip and full body rolls with partners or in a dance group as they raise and lower their arms opposite each other. Hands for this dance routine would be held flat with fingers locked. This routine might also include hip level knee lifts in swift motion in the opposite direction of their partner. Knees lifts in a group line could be done in a syncopated rhythm so each lift is done in contre temp movement to simulate a Native West Indian ritual dance.

Famous Fusion Dance Companies

Alissa Deutsche is the founder and director of the Fusion Dance Company. The Fusion Dance Company is located in Illinois, USA and has a full staff of diverse Fusion Dance Instructors who have presented performances at sports arenas and theaters statewide and nationally.

In the Netherlands one dance choreographer of modern dance incorporates Fusion Dance improvisation into diverse choreographed dance routines.

Most modern dance companies are venturing into Fusion Dance as a result of its rise in popularity among audiences and avid dancers.

Fusion Dance Competitions

Fusion Dance Competitions are held regularly across the U.S. These include:

• Midwest Urban Dance Competition
• Fusion National Dance Competition held in GA, FL, MI, AL and NC

Popular Fusion Dance Festivals

Fusion Dance festivals include:

• Fusion Dance Fest by Fusion Fighters
• Los Angeles Dance Fusion Fest
• Tribal Fusion Festival
• Fusion Dance NYC
• Australian Dance Fusion Festival

Among Fusion Dance Festivals held in Europe, Sarah Lopez and Reda held a Masterclass performance at the Kizomba Fusion at the Valentines Dance Festival in 2017. Their performance is an example of how Fusion Dance is performed by partners.

In addition, the Gypsy Fusion Festival of Europe was held in 2016. Fusion Dance is adaptable to numerous traditional ethnic dance music of Ireland, India, Thailand, China and Japan. This clearly indicates the inherent creativity of this style of dance for choreographers and dancers.

Current Trends in Fusion Dance

Fusion dance, a dynamic blend of various dance styles and cultural influences, continues to evolve with modern trends and artistic innovation. Here are some current trends in fusion dance:

• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Fusion dance artists are increasingly collaborating across cultural boundaries, merging diverse dance forms such as hip-hop, ballet, contemporary, traditional folk dances, and ethnic dance styles. These collaborations result in rich, multicultural performances that celebrate diversity and foster cross-cultural understanding.
• Integration of Technology: With advancements in technology, fusion dancers are incorporating multimedia elements such as projections, interactive visuals, and digital effects into their performances. Technology enhances storytelling, creates immersive experiences, and allows for innovative choreographic possibilities, blurring the lines between dance and digital art.
• Incorporation of Social and Political Themes: Fusion dance serves as a platform for artists to address pressing social and political issues through movement and storytelling. Choreographers are exploring themes such as identity, social justice, environmental sustainability, and human rights, using dance as a powerful tool for activism and advocacy.
• Embrace of Diversity and Inclusivity: Fusion dance celebrates diversity and inclusivity, welcoming dancers of all backgrounds, genders, ages, and abilities. Choreographers prioritize representation and authenticity, creating inclusive spaces where dancers can express their unique identities and perspectives through movement.
• Exploration of Interdisciplinary Collaborations: Fusion dance artists are collaborating with artists from other disciplines such as music, visual arts, theater, and spoken word. These interdisciplinary collaborations push artistic boundaries, inspire creative innovation, and result in multi-dimensional performances that engage all the senses.
• Focus on Personal Expression and Authenticity: In fusion dance, there is an emphasis on personal expression and authenticity, encouraging dancers to explore their individual artistic voices and movement styles. Dancers are encouraged to draw from their personal experiences, emotions, and cultural backgrounds to create meaningful and authentic choreography.
• Adaptation to Virtual Platforms: With the rise of virtual performances and online dance communities, fusion dancers are adapting their art form to digital platforms. Virtual classes, workshops, and performances allow dancers to connect, collaborate, and share their work with global audiences, transcending geographical boundaries and reaching new audiences worldwide.

These trends reflect the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of fusion dance, as artists continue to push artistic boundaries, embrace diversity, and use dance as a powerful tool for social change and cultural expression.

Conclusion

Perhaps, the most interesting part of Fusion Dance is that it allows each dancer with or without a partner to innovate dance movement.

Billboard Magazine, widely recognized as a music industry giant, includes Fusion Dance artist Kayzo whose Fusion technique is based on hardstyle and trap. As noted by Billboard his "high-octane performances, have created a cult following that now packs rooms by the thousands."

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fusion dance?

Fusion dance is a style of dance that blends elements from multiple dance genres, such as contemporary, hip-hop, ballet, jazz, traditional folk dances, and ethnic dance styles. It emphasizes creativity, experimentation, and the integration of diverse movement vocabularies to create innovative and eclectic choreography.

Who invented the fusion dance?

Attributing the invention of fusion dance to a single individual is challenging, as fusion dance is the result of the collective creativity and experimentation of choreographers, dancers, and artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. However, fusion dance as a recognized dance style gained prominence in the late 20th century as dancers began to explore and blend different dance genres and cultural influences.

How does fusion dance differ from traditional dance styles?

Unlike traditional dance styles that adhere to specific techniques and conventions, fusion dance allows for greater flexibility and creativity by combining elements from various dance genres. Fusion dancers often incorporate improvisation, fluid transitions between styles, and unconventional movement patterns to create unique and expressive performances.

Who can participate in fusion dance?

Fusion dance is open to dancers of all backgrounds, levels, and ages. While some prior dance experience may be beneficial, it is not required. Fusion dance welcomes individuals with diverse movement backgrounds and encourages them to explore new styles and techniques in a supportive and inclusive environment.

What are the rules for the fusion dance?

Fusion dance is known for its flexibility and creative freedom, so there are typically no strict rules governing its performance. Choreographers and dancers have the liberty to experiment with different styles, movements, and concepts to create innovative and expressive choreography.

What are some common characteristics of fusion dance?

Common characteristics of fusion dance include a dynamic and eclectic movement vocabulary, fluid transitions between styles, incorporation of music from different genres, emphasis on personal expression and creativity, and a willingness to experiment with movement, costume, and staging.

How do choreographers create fusion dance pieces?

Choreographers approach fusion dance creation by drawing inspiration from various sources, including personal experiences, cultural influences, music, visual art, and social issues. They often collaborate with dancers, musicians, designers, and other artists to develop choreographic concepts and bring their creative vision to life.

How long does the fusion dance last?

The duration of a fusion dance performance can vary depending on the choreographic concept, venue, and artistic vision of the choreographer. Fusion dance pieces can range from short, improvisational pieces to full-length productions that last several minutes or even hours.

Are there specific techniques or skills required for fusion dance?

Fusion dance encourages dancers to explore and develop a diverse range of movement techniques, including but not limited to contemporary, hip-hop, ballet, and traditional dance styles. While technical proficiency is valued, fusion dance places greater emphasis on artistic expression, individuality, and innovation.

Where can I learn fusion dance?

Fusion dance classes and workshops are offered at dance studios, community centers, universities, and dance festivals around the world. Online resources, tutorials, and virtual classes are also available for dancers who wish to explore fusion dance from the comfort of their own homes.

What are some examples of fusion dance performances or companies?

There are many renowned fusion dance companies and choreographers around the world, each with their unique artistic style and approach to fusion dance. Examples include Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Pilobolus, Aakash Odedra Company, and Compagnie Kafig, among others.