The Dance Revolution of the 1970’s

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The Dance Revolution of the 1970’s

Contact improvisation is a modern dance form where two people move while maintaining a connection. It originated from portions of Steve Paxton’s movement studies, which he began in 1972 at Oberlin College. As with every major event that happens in the world, the introduction and investigation of contact improvisation affected everyone in society one way or another.

Many people associate the 1970’s as the “hippie era” in American history. Due to this, the majority of society was open to new ideas. It was the beginning of the sexual revolution and the women’s revolution was just getting underway. Younger members of society were participating in at least one of the numerous Vietnam War Protests, which they organized. They were into “free love”; they wanted to do away with racism and allow everyone to be treated the same and on the same level.

As a result of the vast majority of society and open mindness, Paxton’s ideas in the new movement were accepted. Those who attended performances, also referre...

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