Ode to Isadora:Embodying Isadora Duncan's Natural Movement Philosophy for Choreographic and Performance Tools

This practice-based research investigates Isadora Duncans natural movement philosophy as choreographic and performative tools to enhance expressivity on the millennial dancing body. The millennial demographic targeted in this research ranges from the birth dates of mid-1980s to early 2000s. Characteristically, this generation is highly proficient with digital technology and social media applications. My perception of the current millennial dance climate closely parallels Duncans perception of the emphasis on technical virtuosity during her era. To comprehend Duncans natural movement philosophy, my research methodology employs a combination of Duncan scholarship, archival and embodied research, and a Duncan-inspired choreographic case study with the York Dance Ensemble in the Department of Dance at York University. Due to the minimal representation of Duncan dancers, performers and teachers in Canada it was essential to travel abroad to study with Duncan practitioners.