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A holiday party, a young girl's fantastical dream, a heart-pounding duel, an enchanted forest, and, of course, a handsome prince? All these and more magical elements comprise the holiday treat, The Nutcracker. With this month's collection, learn about creative movement and classical dance, and how to integrate and use it in the classroom. Students can explore the history of ballet, and take a behind-the-scenes peek at two ballet companies. Discover the beauty of ballet and revisit a timeless classic with this month's spotlight!
Lessons:
Ballet and Classical Music
Students are introduced to the conceptual and practical elements of classical ballet as they learn ballet history, vocabulary, and steps.
Elements of Dance
In this lesson, students will explore and discover the elements of dance by demonstrating various simple movements.
Telling a Story through Dance
This lesson uses The Nutcracker to introduce the concept of telling a story through dance and pantomime.
The Language of Ballet
Students learn basic ballet vocabulary and associate it with the actual physical movement.
Dancing through Poetry
Students will review methods and create performances in which poetry can be expressed through dance metaphorically.
How-To:
Managing Creative Movement in the Classroom
Arts educator Harlan Brownlee offers tips for managing student movement activities in your classroom.
Advocacy Essential:
Exercise Your Influence for the Arts
A call to action for teachers to take a proactive role in advocating for arts education.
Look·Listen·Learn:
Excerpts from The Nutcracker
Take a peek at some of the most famous scenes from the beloved winter favorite, The Nutcracker.
Meet the Artist:
Dana Tai Soon Burgess, on the Path to Dance
Burgess talks about his experiences blending Eastern and Western aesthetics in dance.
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