CUADAN507
Refine dance partnering techniques


Application

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to practise and execute complex dance sequences with a partner.

At this level, dancers are challenging themselves with dance sequences of increasing technical and physical complexity.

This unit applies to those who are consolidating their career where a high level of partner work is required for performances. These skills are applied in different ways depending on the dance style.

While some supervision and guidance are provided in practice sessions and rehearsals, dancers are expected to be self-directed and display a high level of motivation and responsibility for themselves and others.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Elements

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance Criteria

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Maintain a physical conditioning program

1.1 In consultation with teachers and mentors, set realistic physical conditioning goals aimed at improving own dance technique

1.2 Use a range of techniques to improve stamina, strength and flexibility

1.3 Identify risk factors that may inhibit the achievement of goals and seek professional advice as required

1.4 Take fatigue and personal limitations into account when undertaking physical conditioning program

1.5 Observe safe dance practice by performing warm-up and warm-down activities in conjunction with dance activities

2. Practise partnering techniques of increasing difficulty

2.1 Break complex partnering routines down into discrete elements and work through each element separately

2.2 Practise combining elements until the required level of precision and technique is achieved

2.3 Practise executing lifts and counterbalances with surety

2.4 Practise going into and out of movements safely and gracefully

2.5 Experiment as required with timing, body position and other techniques associated with multiple partnering

2.6 Develop a high level of creative and technical collaboration with partner

2.7 Apply precision, rhythm and musicality in dance sequences

3. Maintain expertise in dance partnering technique

3.1 Apply professional work ethic to practice and performance activities

3.2 Incorporate injury-prevention techniques into dance and movement activities

3.3 Maintain and update knowledge of dance terminology

3.4 Use feedback from others to identify and develop ways to improve own dance partnering technique

3.5 Regularly view performances by industry practitioners as a way of sourcing new ideas, identifying trends, maintaining motivation, and improving own technique

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

perform a complex dance sequence with a partner on at least two occasions, demonstrating:

harmony of movement

competent execution of the following advanced techniques:

overhead lifts

counterbalances

smooth transitions between movement elements

rapport with partner

respond to constructive feedback on own performance

use terminology associated with chosen dance style correctly.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements the individual must:

explain how the following principles relate to physical movements and dance techniques:

extending

folding

relationship with gravity

rotating

shifting weight

spatial awareness

successional movement

use of breath

explain how the following apply in the context of safe dance practice and injury prevention:

articulation of the spine

engagement of the feet

bases of support, including feet, legs, hands, arms and torso

range of motion of the joints

differentiation of the legs and pelvis

healthy nutrition and diet

explain and demonstrate how the musical elements of time signatures, beat, tempo and syncopation apply to performing partnered dance sequences.


Assessment Conditions

Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:

fully equipped dance studios with suitable flooring

appropriate music or accompanists.

Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Learning

1.1, 3.4, 3.5

Seeks the views and opinions of others to develop own understanding

Analyses feedback, reviews personal goals and reflects on learning and performance

Gains insight from previous experience and from viewing the performances of others

Reading

3.3

Reviews a range of texts to update dance terminology

Oral communication

1.1, 1.3, 2.6, 3.3,

Obtains information by listening and questioning

Discusses dance terminology with others, seeking information and clarifying meaning of terms

Builds rapport with partners through verbal and non-verbal means

Navigate the world of work

1.4, 1.5, 2.6, 3.1, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5

Follows accepted industry practices in relation to safe dance practices, injury-prevention strategies and general work ethic

Takes responsibility for own ongoing professional and career development

Interact with others

1.1, 1.3, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 3.4

Works collaboratively to develop and improve dance techniques

Responds creatively and flexibly to partners while dancing together

Get the work done

1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 3.1, 3.2

Adopts a methodical, disciplined and positive approach to physical conditioning program, dance classes and evaluation of own skill development

Breaks complex dance sequences down into their component parts

Anticipates and finds solutions to problems that could arise while performing complex partnered sequences

Works creatively with music and dance movements

Communicates the mood or style of dance sequences

Takes steps to minimise risk of injury through appropriate physical conditioning program


Sectors

Performing arts – dance