The Art of Dance and Drama

(Grades 1 to 9)

The primary aim of the Dance and Drama Curriculum at TMS  is to help the students develop an awareness and deeper understanding of human behaviour, themselves and the lives of other people. Through dance and drama, students will explore universal conflicts, triumphs and themes to gain “felt knowledge” about the world they live in.

The curriculum includes an emphasis on the study and application of the fundamental principles of the art. For example, all students are introduced to the 5 elements of dance and the basic structures of drama.

Classes begin with what the students are most familiar and comfortable. Most students of this generation have at least some familiarity with the style of dance called Hip Hop. This particular dance style is based on individual style and creativity. The students first learn the elements of dance by learning a short Hip Hop routine, and then create their own choreography by manipulating the different elements of primary movements, rhythm patterns, direction and levels.

Once the students have demonstrated a firm understanding of the dance elements, they continue to study the art of dance in conjunction with drama in a thematic form. The themes are based on literary material as well as other cultural materials. The use of themes allows for an integrated and contextual approach to teaching dance and drama.

Examples of Themes:

• Belonging & Acceptance/ Discrimination & Stereotypes
• Solving Environmental Problems: (e.g. pollution, endangered species, deforestation)
• Poverty
• The Elements: earth, fire, water, air
• Diversity, Interpersonal Relationships
• Power, Authority, Government
• Bullying
• Individual Conscience, Making Choices

Examples of Dance & Movement Styles:

• Hip Hop
• Breakdancing
• Fundamentals of Ballet and Jazz, Tap
• Improvisation, Modern
• Yoga
• Stomp
• Country Line Dancing
• Folk Dancing
• Cardio Rhythm (aerobic style dancing)

Era Dances:

• 1950’s 1960’s Rock & Roll
• 1970’s Disco
• 1980’s New Wave

Cultural Dance:

• Latin: Salsa, Cha-Cha
• Spanish: Flamenco
• Russian:
• Hawaiian
• Indian
• Scottish: Gay Gordons

Examples of Drama Structures:

• Role Playing
• Tableaux
• Chanting
• Hot-Seating
• Spontaneous Role Play
• Thought-Tracking
• Corridor of Voices
• Mirroring