Dance History
A.Y. 2024/2025
Learning objectives
The course aims to provide knowledge of the historical-critical framework of dance, from its origins to the 20th century, with reference to the main phenomena of theatrical civilisation of different periods and geographical areas. The second and third units propose analysis paths dedicated respectively to the artistic events of the Ballets Russes and to modern and contemporary dance.
Expected learning outcomes
By the end of the course, students will have acquired the historical-critical ability to contextualise a dance performance within its cultural frame of reference. Students will also acquire the basic tools to analyse choreography and critically read a classical, modern and contemporary dance performance.
Lesson period: First semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
Building on the study of dance history, the course offers an overview of the art of choreography through the viewing and study of some significant performances from the classical, modern and contemporary repertoire. Special space will be devoted to the stage fortune of romantic ballet and the artistic story of Djagilev and the Ballets Russes. Meetings and performances will be offered in collaboration with Teatro Elfo Puccini and Teatro alla Scala.
Prerequisites for admission
Knowledge of the basic concepts of historical chronology and main movements of Italian and European literature and culture is recommended. Classes are in Italian language.
Teaching methods
The course aims to provide knowledge about the main issues related to the history of theater, its tools of investigation and their application in different areas (dramaturgy, performance, organization, set design). The lectures aim to develop analytical and critical skills and abilities, in terms of analysis of the dramatic text and performance. During the course, attending students will have the opportunity to attend a number of performances scheduled in Milan theaters.
Teaching Resources
Attending students (students who appear on the list of classes drawn up by the professor during the lectures from September to December 2023)
The integral study of the following 2 volumes:
1 Elena Cervellati, Storia della danza, Pearson, Torino 2020.
2. Elena Randi, La grande stagione del balletto russo. Fra Ottocento e Novecento: tradizione e avanguardia, Dino Audino, Roma 2022.
Non attending students
The integral study of the following 4 volumes:
1. Elena Cervellati, Storia della danza, Torino, Pearson, 2020
2. Flavia Pappacena, La danza classica. Le origini, Roma-Bari, Laterza, 2009 (also available in digital edition, 2014)
3. Elena Randi, La grande stagione del balletto russo. Fra Ottocento e Novecento: tradizione e avanguardia, Dino Audino, Roma 2022
4. Alessandro Pontremoli, La danza 2.0, Paesaggi coreografici del nuovo millennio, Roma-Bari, Laterza, 2018
The integral study of the following 2 volumes:
1 Elena Cervellati, Storia della danza, Pearson, Torino 2020.
2. Elena Randi, La grande stagione del balletto russo. Fra Ottocento e Novecento: tradizione e avanguardia, Dino Audino, Roma 2022.
Non attending students
The integral study of the following 4 volumes:
1. Elena Cervellati, Storia della danza, Torino, Pearson, 2020
2. Flavia Pappacena, La danza classica. Le origini, Roma-Bari, Laterza, 2009 (also available in digital edition, 2014)
3. Elena Randi, La grande stagione del balletto russo. Fra Ottocento e Novecento: tradizione e avanguardia, Dino Audino, Roma 2022
4. Alessandro Pontremoli, La danza 2.0, Paesaggi coreografici del nuovo millennio, Roma-Bari, Laterza, 2018
Assessment methods and Criteria
The examination consists of a written test designed to test knowledge of the history of theater and the in-depth bibliography provided in the syllabus, with special attention to argumentative ability and terminological competence in the discipline. This syllabus is valid from the first exam call until the end of the exam calls scheduled for A.Y. 2024-2025. Incoming international or Erasmus students are encouraged to make timely contact with the course instructor. Examination arrangements for students with disabilities and/or DSA must be arranged with the lecturer in consultation with the appropriate office.
Professor(s)