Ausdruckstanz

Ausdruckstanz, meaning "expressionistic dance," was a significant development in German modern dance during the early 20th century. This style emerged as a reaction against the perceived artificialities of traditional ballet and sought to express the dancer's innermost impulses through movement. Pioneers like Mary Wigman, Kurt Jooss, and Hanya Holm were central figures in this movement, influencing dance practices both in Germany and internationally, particularly in the United States. The focus was on authentic self-expression, often drawing inspiration from music, ancient art, or non-Western dance forms.12