Title: Research Paper on the History of Jazz Dance
Course: Jazz I
Length: 3-5 pages
Format: Double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman, 1-inch margins on all sides
Citation Style: MLA
Submission Format: PDF
Instructions:
In this assignment, you are required to research and write a comprehensive paper on the history of jazz dance. This paper should explore the origins, evolution, and cultural significance of jazz dance, as well as key figures and movements that have shaped its development. Use the following guidelines to structure your research and writing:
Introduction:
Provide a brief overview of what jazz dance is and why it is significant in the world of dance.
State the purpose of your paper and outline the key points you will discuss.
Origins of Jazz Dance:
Research the roots of jazz dance, tracing its origins back to African dance traditions and their influence in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Discuss how jazz dance emerged from a blend of African rhythms, movements, and European dance forms.
Evolution of Jazz Dance:
Explore how jazz dance evolved over time, particularly through the influence of the Harlem Renaissance, the swing era, and the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Discuss the role of jazz music in shaping jazz dance and how the two art forms influenced each other.
Highlight key styles within jazz dance, such as Broadway jazz, street jazz, and contemporary jazz.
Key Figures and Choreographers:
Identify and discuss the contributions of key figures in the history of jazz dance, such as Katherine Dunham, Jack Cole, and Bob Fosse.
Explore how these individuals shaped the development of jazz dance and brought it to mainstream audiences.
Cultural Impact and Legacy:
Analyze the cultural significance of jazz dance in American history and its impact on other dance forms.
Discuss how jazz dance has been represented in popular culture, including film, theater, and television.
Consider the ways in which jazz dance continues to evolve and influence contemporary dance.
Conclusion:
Summarize the main points of your paper, reinforcing the significance of jazz dance in the broader context of dance history.
Offer your reflections on what you learned through your research and how it has enhanced your understanding of jazz dance.
References:
Include a list of all sources used in your research, formatted according to the citation style specified by the instructor (MLA).