'Strictly Ballroom' is a successful film with fabulous dance scenes, and has been adapted into a popular musical. This resource helps students develop their understanding of how dance and production elements communicate meaning.
Structure and features
This 4-minute video clip shows a rehearsal for the musical. The resource includes a comprehensive transcript describing the action, as well as the dialogue, and a list of questions called 'Things to think about'. Viewers are encouraged to clap or tap along with the rhythm kept by the dancers and possibly try some of the dance moves too.
Before viewing
Consider and make notes on how you feel about dancing. For example, do you like to dance, or are you a bit shy? What makes you want to move your body to music?
During viewing
Clap or tap along to the rhythms created by the performers. Listen to the instructions that the singers give to the male dancer in white. Consider the other performers on the stage, and how they appear to be feeling. Take notes of what you observe.
After viewing
- Describe in writing or in a recording:
- the movements of the dancers, paying particular notice of their hands and arms
- how the dancers are expressing themselves through the movement
- the mood of the dance
- the countries or cultures suggested by the dance.
- Research the 'pasodoble', what it represents, and what country it originates from.
- Investigate the movie 'Strictly Ballroom' and retell the story.
- Create a 30-60 second movement phrase that
- has clear and strong rhythm, and
- uses at least 3 of the movements performed in the clip.
Teacher notes
This resource addresses the responding strand of Australian Curriculum Dance years 3-6. The making strand can also be addressed by choosing part 4 of the 'after viewing' section. Students should be encourage to record their dance, share with a friend (on a safe platform) and then submit to the teacher.
