Briefly explain the main principles of Cunningham technique. Argue how this technique could be useful for all performers.

The Cunningham Technique was created by Merce Cunningham, to provide a form of training for the dancers in his company. One of its key concepts is to ‘create strength and flexibility of the body and the mind.’ (Mercecunningham.org, 2020) The main principals are:

Strengthening and flexibility – This includes exercises for the torso and legs, either in coordination or opposition. The exercises develop a dancer’s flexibility without distorting their body shape, so that there is a lower risk of injury. The technique draws on ballet principles in relation to arm positioning, foot work and movement.

Spatial Awareness – This principle helps a dancer use their body in space. For example, the environmental space, spatial awareness of the other dancers around you, maintaining balance, moving in multiple directions and moving your own body parts in different directions.

Rhythmic accuracy – This is developed in classes by using a variety of tempos and meters. Rhythmic accuracy is important for dancing with music, especially in a group piece where movements must be synchronised (Movedancewear.com, 2019).

All dancing requires flexibility, strength, spatial awareness and rhythm. Therefore, the Cunningham technique can be used to strengthen and condition all dancers, regardless of their style. The technique improves the posture and alignment of the spine. All movement radiates from the spine, as it is the central axis that moves our limbs around and is vital for all dancers accentuate the alignment of the spine. Also, Cunningham widens the length and breadth of the arm span and can invoke a sense of internal power, which can be used to strengthen any dancer’s performance.