Bob Fosse’s dance style was introduced in the class, and its key features are isolations of body parts, numerous gestures, and turned-in movements. The famous song “All That Jazz” from the musical Chicago largely contributed to the understanding of Fosse’s style. Furthermore, I discovered many new moves, which are easy and look graceful at the same time. For example, one of them is a Jazz square or a Jazz box, consisting of four steps (cross-back-side-front). Without any doubt, the movement, along with the song, is incredibly rhythmic and beautiful.
To be honest, most of the moves clearly show the past style rather than the present to me. They significantly differ from the ones widespread nowadays due to their smoothness. Jazz style was popular in the United States in the past, and it reveals the atmosphere of that time. Moreover, most of the movements introduced in the class are common jazz movements, which can be noticed in numerous classic movies. They create the opportunity for people to feel or dive into the mysterious and lively atmosphere of the past. Besides, I have always paid attention to such a movement as Jazz hands, which is particularly distinctive. It is a unique feature of jazz style, which I have never noticed in any other contemporary style.
I am also intent on watching the musical Chicago, as I believe it will help me understand Fosse’s dance style better. However, I have already watched several scenes from the 2002 film Chicago, which successfully convey the mood of Jazz. Even though Bob Fosse was not a choreographer of the film, I think the movie’s dance scenes are excellent. The actors did their best to present Fosse’s style; thus, the film is highly appreciated.