- Focuses on independent movement of specific body parts, including the hips, chest, and shoulders, while synchronously moving other parts.
- Utilizes polyrhythms, where different parts of the body move to contrasting rhythm patterns, creating a complex groove.
Syncopation and Improvisation
- Involves syncopated (off-beat) rhythms, providing an edgy and dynamic feel to the dance.
- Encourages improvisation and personal interpretation within a given movement framework, allowing dancers to contribute their unique style.
Flexibility and Athleticism
- Demands a high level of flexibility, agility, coordination, balance, and strength.
- Dancers often incorporate tumbling, acrobatic tricks, leaps, and turns into their routines.
Expressive Body Language
- Emphasizes strong facial expression and energetic gestures to convey emotion and connect with the audience.
Roots in African and European Traditions
- Derived from African dance techniques, such as call-and-response, polyrhythmic patterns, and body isolation.
- Influenced by European dances like the waltz, polka, and quadrille.