How To Choreograph A Dance

Choreography is more than just putting steps together to music, it’s about telling a story, connecting to your audience and expressing emotions. However it’s not as easy as you think, it can be hard to think of dance ideas. There are certain choreographic devices you can use to help you to design your next performance, keep reading to find out more…

Our step by step guide on how to choreograph a dance using choreographic devices 

If you are creating a dance routine and needing some dance ideas, here's our simple step by step guide to help: 

• Choose a song or a theme 

Music is one of the most important parts of your dance routine. Make sure you are selecting dance routine songs that inspire you. The correct dance routine song will shape your movement choices. Pairing your dance theme with the right dance routine songs is essential. Choosing the right dance routine song can make your choreography both powerful and memorable.

• Define you dance theme ideas 

Without a clear dance theme idea you will struggle to create an impactful dance routine. Make sure you know what you want to communicate to your audience, dance themes ideas can range from love and freedom to abstract concepts like time or conflict. If you need a little inspiration, here are some dance theme ideas;

-Emotions: joy, sadness, anger, or hope
-Nature: waves, storms, or seasons
-Stories: fairy tales, myths, or personal journeys
-Abstract Concepts: time, unity, or transformation

• Generate dance ideas 

Brainstorming different dance ideas by experimenting with different body levels, directions and dynamics can create variety and make your movement a lot more interesting. 

• Use choreographic devices 

There are many different types of choreographic devices you can apply to your choreography to make your routine more engaging. The following techniques are great guidelines to use to help you to choreograph your dance; 

-Repetition: Reinforce a movement for emphasis.
-Canon: Dancers perform the same sequence at different times.

-Retrograde: Reverse the order of movements for creativity.

• Structure your routine

It will be easier to create your dance routine if there is a clear beginning, middle, and end. Start with a strong opening, build towards a climax, and finish with a memorable ending.

• Refine and rehearse

A great way to improve your dance routine is by recording your work and playing it back to yourself. This way you can see the things that need improving, review it and adjust. Practice with your dancers until movements feel polished and expressive.

Learning how to choreograph a dance means balancing your creativity with structure. You can make a captivating dance routine by combining strong choreographic devices, inspiring dance routine songs, and meaningful dance themes ideas. We hope our dance ideas help you create the perfect dance routine and remember to make sure you enjoy the process! Practice your new found choregraphic skills feeling your best in a new dance leotard and dance shoes too!

The Move Dance Team