Improvisation is an integral part of being a dancer. It undoubtedly one of the hardest tasks as a dancer, but it is also extremely rewarding. We have some great tips to help you improve your improv and find inspiration to dance.
- Find Your Style. Whenever you get a chance to improv, it is your time to try out different styles of dance. Find movements that you feel comfortable and confident in. Also try varying the tempo of your movements to make your dancing less monotone and more interesting.
- Challenge Your Body. See how you feel about different movements try isolating parts of your body that you normally do not focus on. Try concentrating on finger movement, pelvis placement, and rib cage isolation instead of your flexible legs.
- Limit Tricks. Improv is much more meaningful when you are not focusing on how many pirouettes you can whip out or how high you can kick your leg. It is about finding what unique moves and details look and feel good to your body. You can work your flexibility and technique constantly in class so use improv opportunities to find yourself.
- Work Different Levels. If you don't know how to start your improv, start on the floor spend time playing with movements to get you standing and even jumping. Spend time in all levels especially lunges to create interesting movement.
- Listen to the Music. Use the music as your guide. Even if you aren't familiar with the song, let it provide you with inspiration for movement. You won't necessarily match up exactly to counts, but that is not as important as finding your comfort zone where your body takes over and your mind is set free.
- Embrace the Awkward. There is no such thing as a wrong movement when doing improv. If something feels or looks awkward stay in the moment and make it feel right. Working through these spots is what makes a great improvist.
- DANCE LIKE NO ONE IS WATCHING. This is the most important thing to remember when doing improv. It doesn't matter what others think of your movements, good or bad. Improv is for you and no one else. Embrace these opportunities and have fun with it!
