Photo Credit: Teresa Fellion.
Recently, SUNY Old Westbury has been expanding its opportunities for students by adding a new performing arts class. Teresa Fellion taught the “The Culturally Diverse Language of Dance’’ course offered this semester.
This new class teaches the history and meanings behind the dances that have made an impact on numerous cultures worldwide. “I think dance especially, to understand how dance forms come to be, the historical context… it kind’ve takes it to a deeper understanding and not just like ‘Oh I just want to put my foot there cause it looks good,’” Fellion explained. “Sometimes choreographically and aesthetically that happens, but there is just so much more meaning behind it as dance can come from a different culture, different religion, to respond to protest– there’s so many reasons why dance is created. I give readings that sort’ve explain those histories and social context.’’
Fellion has a vast history in dance as she has traveled and danced to multiple dance styles such as ballet, jazz, and tap. Fellion also moved to Cameroon and studied the dances in South Africa. She expanded her horizons as she participated in group performances and learned more about the articulation of places in the body that are not present in other dances such as jazz.
With every class, there are assignments and grades involved. In this class, there are readings assigned to educate students about the important history behind the dances that have become ubiquitous. The assignments in the class consist of analyses and readings on the different styles of dance and routines created by successful choreographers such as Alvin Ailey. Some talk about the impact that he had on modern dance. “They [the students] really love those readings and thinking about, ‘What’s the impact and culture of each place and dance that we study?’ For that, I almost think of them as anthropologists and like, ‘Look at how they are going to look at the world differently now and the meaning of the art,’” Fellion said.
One student, Janae Grant, finds the class to be rewarding. She said, “We’ve been able to discover and discuss wonderful cultures throughout the semester. Everyone has brought in their own unique personalities that make the class special and exciting.” While she had some prior knowledge about some topics discussed, she was “able to divulge even more.” Grant said the course has reinforced her perspective on the creative arts, as it proves “dance has such a deep rooted connection to history that most people will never understand.”
Fellion also explained how the midterm and final project consist of a short dance routine that the students will research, showcasing their dance knowledge. If they choose not to dance, students have the option to write a 3 to 5 page essay, as well. Fellion expressed how she enjoys moments when students make realizations about how there are so many styles of dance. She also enjoys watching students become excited about the final assignments.
Grant explained, “I’ve personally been able to lead some exercises and it’s been great opening up to new people. Professor Fellion has done a great job in pushing students to be free and feel vulnerable.” She continued, “Being able to create something and bring it to life is a beautiful thing.”
Fellion hopes that students can walk away with a better understanding of the art of dance.
