Dance and diversity

We`re different on the outside, but the same on the inside. There are different dance forms, but they all require technique. These were a few of the concepts shared with Lower School students as members of the Cleveland Contemporary Dance Theatre (CCDT) performed in Ingalls Gym at a recent assembly. Displaying physical strength and beauty, three CCDT dancers demonstrated ballet, modern, jazz and improvisation. Prompted by a narrator, students were quick to point out the similarities and differences they saw. Ballet has controlled, straight lines; modern has movements that are closer to the ground and +óGé¼-£more like real people;` and jazz dance combines a variety of techniques in a showy, entertaining style. During the assembly, members of the audience got to try their hand, or feet rather, at the different styles. Three groups of students, each led by a professional dancer, learned a short number in a just a few minutes and then performed for the audience. A lively improvisational number rounded up the student participation. The entertaining and educational assembly had students literally dancing their way back to their classrooms. And one class was even inspired to perform an impromptu concert complete with movements from the show, musical accompaniment and a director. The Cleveland Contemporary Dance Theatre was founded in 1998 and "is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of minorities and all people by teaching, promoting and celebrating diversity through performance, community outreach and dance-related experiences." The group performs in schools throughout the area under the auspices of Young Audiences of Northeast Ohio.