#16 Does Form Follow Function or Does Function Follow Form?

This thought-provoking episode of the Dance GEMS podcast, "Does Form Follow Function or Does Function Follow Form?" explores the debate at the heart of dance and choreography. Should dance prioritize functionality or artistic form? Traditionally, many dance educators and practitioners believe that function comes before form. This viewpoint emphasizes mastering technique, body mechanics, and the functional aspects of movement before focusing on dance's creative and aesthetic aspects. However, this episode gives voice to artistically driven dancers and choreographers who argue the opposite. They believe that artistic expression should take precedence, with the desired form guiding the functionality of movement. This perspective views dance as an art form where creative vision and expression lead, with functional aspects adapting to the artistic vision. "The Dance GEMS" podcast leans towards this viewpoint, acknowledging that this debate has no absolute truth. The episode explores how prioritizing artistic expression can liberate dancers and choreographers to push boundaries and explore new territories in dance. Through discussion and analysis of historical and contemporary works, we discover that dance's relationship between form and function is dynamic and subjective. This episode challenges listeners to reconsider their perspectives on dance creation and performance, urging them to explore new possibilities in the synergy of form and function.