Contextualization

Urban dances emerged as an artistic expression of peripheral cultural movements, mainly in large cities in the United States. They are a set of dance styles, each with its specific characteristics, but sharing the history of struggle and resistance that gave rise to them. In our study, we will focus our attention on breakdancing, hip-hop, and street dance, but it is important to remember that there are many other styles within this category.

The term 'urban dance' is a direct translation from English 'urban dance', which refers to all dances that originated in urban centers, mainly in the United States, from the mix of cultures and traditions of African, European, and Latino immigrants. Their popularity has grown over the years, and today urban dances are practiced worldwide, both in formal spaces such as dance schools and academies, and in informal spaces such as streets, parks, and squares.

Importance of Urban Dances

The importance of urban dances goes far beyond being a form of artistic expression. These dances play a fundamental role in the cultural and social development of young people worldwide. Participating in these dance styles allows young people to express their emotions, develop motor skills, and interact socially in a positive way.

Furthermore, urban dance is a physical activity option that helps improve motor coordination, flexibility, balance, and endurance, as well as contributing to the development of self-esteem and self-confidence. And, most importantly, it is a way for young people to express themselves through dance and make their voices heard.

To better understand the world of urban dances, I suggest using the following resources as a research base:

1. History of Urban Dances - Cravo Albin Dictionary of Brazilian Popular Music
2. Urban Dances - Origin, History, and Styles
3. Documentary 'Rhythm of the Streets - Where Dance and Culture Meet' (Netflix) - Link
4. Explanatory videos and urban dance classes (YouTube - FitDance) - Link

Remember: the idea of this project is not only to learn the movements but to understand the history and culture surrounding urban dances. Good research and good dance!

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Dancing Between Cultures - An Exploration of Urban Dances

Project Objective:

• Understand and value urban dances and the elements that constitute them.
• Identify and differentiate urban dances from other dance manifestations.
• Develop and build an urban dance performance as a manifestation of theoretical and practical learning.

Detailed Project Description:

In groups of 3 to 5 students, you must choose an urban dance to study. The study should involve both theory and practice, that is, besides researching and understanding the history and culture of the chosen dance, you must also learn and rehearse a choreography.

The choreography should consist of a selection of movements representative of the chosen style. You are encouraged to use creativity and collaboration to create a fun and expressive dance.

The final result of the project will be a presentation of the choreography to the class and the delivery of a written report detailing the entire process of creation and learning.

Necessary Materials:

• Research equipment (books, internet access, etc.)
• Adequate space for rehearsals
• Sound system for practicing the choreography

Step by Step:

1. Form groups and choose the urban dance you want to study.

2. Start researching the chosen dance, using the resources suggested in the contextualization and others you find.

3. Take notes on important information about the history, culture, movements, and music of the chosen dance.

4. Choose a song that suits the dance you are studying and start thinking about a choreography.

5. Practice the choreography until all group members feel comfortable with the movements.

6. Prepare the final presentation: rehearse the choreography with the music, think about costumes, decoration, etc.

7. Perform the presentation for the class!

8. After the presentation, the groups must write the final project report. This report should include:

   • Introduction: Contextualization of the theme, relevance of urban dances, and project objective.
   • Development: Theory about the chosen dance, activity in detail, methodology used in choreography construction, and results obtained.
   • Conclusion: Recap of the main points, learnings, and conclusions drawn from the project.
   • Bibliography: Sources used in the project.

Remember: The report is as important as the presentation in the final project evaluation. Therefore, dedicate time to the elaboration of this document!