This module provides for advanced study of theoretical principles and practices current with contemporary and post modern dance performance research. It provides students with the opportunity to extend their critical examination of a range of contemporary/post-modern dance techniques and to further develop strong technical and theoretical foundations towards the creative application of the body and bodies in choreography and performance. Current techniques, informing the study and practice of dance will be contextualized with reference to historically key movements in contemporary and post-modern dance and choreography.

The knowledge is structured according to the theoretical frameworks, principles and practices underpinning the history of Western Contemporary and Post-Modern dance choreography and performance. Its transmission is primarily through live studio-based research into the aesthetic, historical and ideological concepts that have informed the development of Contemporary and Post-Modern dance performance techniques. The knowledge is also stored and transmitted through literature and text-based dance research, video, DVD documentation of the canon of works which define the tradition.

On successful completion of the this module students should be able to: Interpret dance and choreography in a range of performance contexts. Investigate performance processes through engagement with practice-based dance and performance research theories and practice. Demonstrate an embodied understanding of how to apply technical knowledge in extending their critical engagement with, and their expressive capacity in, dance.

Initiate research towards extending conceptual and kinetic expression in dance and performance Demonstrate an ability to apply their technical skills in the devising and performing the conceptual and expressive content of choreographic works.

Design a studio-based practice that is anatomically and physiologically safe. Perform the movement content of choreography with clarity and precision.

Studio/practice- based examination of selected principles and practices underpinning contemporary and post-modern dance and performance technique training through workshops and ensemble master classes to the end of developing an embodied knowledge. Oral transmission of current developments in technique training are constantly contextualised with reference to the history and tradition of Contemporary Dance performance in the workshops. Improvisation tasks provide the opportunity for students to create responses appropriate to their specific technical needs. Ensemble improvisation-based classes require the students to collaborate in finding solutions to problems. Current developments in the field of contemporary dance techniques are constantly investigated through the study and practice of a emerging techniques. Students are required to deepen their understanding of the principles and practices being studied by undertaking a self-directed, parallel practice of research to include studio-based practice, reading, viewing live or recorded performances.