I become very excited when I find books that I can use to add value to my dance classes. "Pablo Picasso - Art for Children" by Ernest Raboff (1982) not only includes vivid pictures of the artists work by also interpretations of each piece. I cannot wait to use them, especially this one on "The Rooster". Here are some ideas I have...First explore movement dynamics using concrete images, such as the strong rooster vs a bird that conjures images of grace and gentleness like a swan perhaps. Select music that reflects these movements and aids the students to use different space, rhythm and energy. Secondly the shape and forms in the drawing can be interpreted through dance. The zig-zag and sharp lines of the roosters crown and beak can be shaped in the body as well as in locomotor movements (skips or running and stopping abruptly). The rounded belly and soft curves of the tail also allows for contrast between linear and round, sharp and soft. Thirdly there is opportunity to explore dance through color. How would you move if you were the red crown as opposed to the blue body or the yellow tail?
This kind of lesson is both fun and educational. Dancers end up interpreting and internalising Picasso's work kinesthetically. Have you used this type of teaching in your dance classes? Do you have any other ideas on incorporating this into your teaching?
