What is Modern Theatre?

Modern Theatre is a rhythmic dance style which originated in America before travelling to the rest of the world. It incorporates the style and technique of modern, contemporary, jazz, lyrical and musical theatre under one umbrella.

Modern is often seen on the stages of musical productions and is known for its theatrical qualities e.g. Bob Fosse or Martha Graham’s work. The style uses floor work, travelling steps, high kicks, elevated jumps, extended leaps, and strong turns which require strong technique, secure posture, stamina, flexibility, sense of musicality and various style.

Modern is free form and a break-free from the strict classical ballet technique, with movements that origin from the core of the body, uses elements like contract and release, floor work, fall and recovery such as body drop, deep controlled movements, and improvisation.

Suitable for boys and girls age 5 and above.

Syllabus:

Beginner Level (Primary for age 5-7) – Develop natural movement such as walking, running, jumping and skipping to encourage imaginative and rapid response, sense of line, coordinated movements and ability to express a feeling
Graded Level (Grade 1 – 6 for age 6+) – Develop technical accuracy with correct body placement, versatile range of movement, all-round strengths and abilities, sense of self-expression and creative improvisation
Vocational Level (Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced 1 & Advanced 2 for age 12+) – Develop virtuosity in performance, awareness of audiences and self-expression, comprehensive technique in the styles of modern, jazz, lyrical and contemporary, as well as mature improvisation skills

International Examination Board:
– Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD), United Kingdom:

Established in 1904, the ISTD is a registered educational charity and membership association, and is one of the world’s leading dance examination boards with 12 faculties from ballet, modern, ballroom, dance sport and social dance. ISTD mission is to educate the public in the art of dancing in all its forms, to promote the knowledge of dance, to provide up-to-date techniques, and to maintain and improve teaching standards across the globe. The ISTD is always moving with the times to keep pace with the latest developments in dance. Currently, ISTD has more than 7,500 members in over 50 countries throughout the world and holds 250,000 examinations each year.

Sample of the syllabus at vocational level.