So what is contemporary dance exactly?

information from www.blackfishacademy.com/dance.htm

The name "Contemporary Dance" describes a range of techniques and styles used in classes, workshops and dance choreography. Contemporary dance was developed in the early 20th century as a reaction against the rigid techniques of ballet. Pioneers such as Isadora Duncan and Martha Graham searched for ease of movement using the body's natural lines and energy, allowing a greater range and fluidity of movement than conventional dance techniques.

Contemporary techniques focus on ideas such as; the architecture of the body in space, rhythm and articulation; the use of contraction, release, fall and recovery; the use of energy in relation to gravity

Contemporary dance is characterised by its versatility: contemporary can be danced to almost any style of music, or united with other dance forms to create new styles of movement. Contemporary seeks to work with the natural alignment of the body, and is therefore safe and accessible for beginners. At the same time, the ease of movement promoted by contemporary dance technique allows experienced dancers to push new boundaries of body movement.

Improvisation

Improvisation focuses on the investigation of movement and its relation to performance. Development of individual movement material is facilitated through a variety of creative explorations.

Contact Improvisation

Contact improvisation describes a duet dance form characterised by weight exchange, fluid movement and touch. Partners improvise using the natural movement of the body.

Choreography

Choreography workshops are designed to encourage personal investigation into ideas for the creation of movement.

Where can I find out about contemporary dance performances in Perth?

www.perthdance.com is a good place to start. This website contains links to all performances of ballet and contemporary dance by Perth-based companies (inclding us). By seeing a range of dance performances, you will be able to make up your mind about what appeals to you.

Other websites to check out are
www.strutdance.org.au
www.buzzdance.com.au
www.stepsyouthdance.com.au

and thats just for starters....