Ancient Times- Dance Ritual, Celebration, & Entertainment

Egypt Ritual – Danced in groups of single gender- all males or all females – Dancing originated as a way to Mourn the dead and honor the gods – Very similar to modern gymnastics & acrobatics

Greece Dance was a way to communicate wisdom & truth Considered a necessary part of education Ritual – Apollonian Dance- accompanied by lyres & lutes Ceremonial dance performed during religious festivals and funeral practices – Dionysian Dance- ( Bacchanalian Dance)- celebration dance used to evoke passion, panic, and desire

North America Native American – Celebration and ritual – Very Special Art form in culture – Use of drums for accompaniment – Elaborate Costumes – To honor nature, planting rituals, to honor family/tribe members, to entertain guests – Names of dances honor animals: example- bear dance – Done by men or women alone – Performed in circles –