This new curriculum is based on the study of Alvin Ailey's Night Creature, a fusion of Ailey's buoyant choreography and Duke Ellington's sparkling music. As a large ensemble work, replete with movements that invoke animals in joyful celebration, it is ideally suited for engaging young minds.
Students will explore the history of jazz music and jazz dance, the basic elements of movement analysis, strategies for group collaboration and peer assessment as well as experience-embodied learning through dance-making opportunities. The Night Creature curriculum uses imaginative thinking to provide connections to music, visual arts, social studies, science, and literacy through discussion, analysis, reflective response, and writing. Students will be encouraged to explore their own "night creatures" through learning excerpts of Night Creature, writing poems, drawing, and creating their own original choreography.
Grades: |
3–5 |
Location: |
Studio, gym, or auditorium |
How long: |
Eight weeks minimum; includes mandatory professional development workshop for educators |
Students served: |
35 maximum per class |
Availability: |
October–June |
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