Breakaway

Madison Lapham

Abstract

In our society, teens and young adults are heavily influenced by the use of stereotypes and following what we define as being “normal”. Labels are so often used to define who we are and force us to follow along with what society wants us to be. This dance piece was built to inform and inspire individuals to find the courage to disregard the labels and stereotypes given to us. My choreography demonstrates how individuals find the courage to break away from norm. The piece was shaped by the personal stories shared by each of the dancers. Each performer has a label written on their body. The words written upon them symbolize the actual labels and stereotypes given to them throughout their life. The rags used to remove the labels represent their courage and determination to create their own definition of who they are and what they wish to be. We have to the power to either follow along with what society wants us to become or break away and create our own definition of who we are.

 

Breakaway

In our society, teens and young adults are heavily influenced by the use of stereotypes and following what we define as being “normal”. Labels are so often used to define who we are and force us to follow along with what society wants us to be. This dance piece was built to inform and inspire individuals to find the courage to disregard the labels and stereotypes given to us. My choreography demonstrates how individuals find the courage to break away from norm. The piece was shaped by the personal stories shared by each of the dancers. Each performer has a label written on their body. The words written upon them symbolize the actual labels and stereotypes given to them throughout their life. The rags used to remove the labels represent their courage and determination to create their own definition of who they are and what they wish to be. We have to the power to either follow along with what society wants us to become or break away and create our own definition of who we are.