Ghosts of Dancers Past

All great dancers follow in the footsteps of those who came before them, literally! Get inspired by some iconic dancers to help kids create moves of their own. Some renowned dance pioneers (and a great place to start) are Martha Graham, Alvin Ailey and Bill Robinson.

Once you and your kids have chosen a dance icon, visit a local library or find reputable online resources to research that dancer’s biography and learn about who they were and what they stood for. For example, Alvin Ailey was a pioneer in modern dance who advocated for social justice, LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality. Next, take a look at videos and pictures to get a sense of their style, how they moved and what types of shapes they made with their body, especially noticing the styles and qualities they’re known for. Choose three or four key elements that stand out to you, and have your kids replicate those movements.

Then, invite your kids to put their own spin on those moves. Ask your class to create original choreography that connects the movements together to create a new, unique phrase. Afterwards, reflect on how the moves created—and actions taken—by these legendary choreographers inspire, live on and evolve throughout space and time.