Unveiling the hidden narratives: investigating gender, identity, and activism in contemporary dance performances within the realm of social arts

Abstract

Objectives: This study shows how contemporary dance serves as a dynamic platform for challenging and redefining notions of gender and identity. By analyzing a variety of contemporary dance performances, the research aims to reveal the underlying narratives that reflect and contest societal norms. Through a detailed examination of choreographic choices, movement vocabulary, and thematic elements, the study highlights how these components contribute to the deconstruction of traditional gender constructs. Methods: Additionally, the research investigates the role of contemporary dance as a form of activism, focusing on how performers use their craft to entertain, raise awareness, and provoke dialogue on social issues. An artificial neural network (ANN) was employed to estimate the relationships between gender fluidity, the challenge of social norms, and their effects on transformation potential, activist participation, and artistic expression. Results: The results indicate that increases in both gender fluidity and thechallenge to social norms significantly enhance transformation potential, activist participation, and artistic expression. The accuracy of the ANN's predictions was validated through linear regression analysis, demonstrating acceptable error margins compared to experimental results. Conclusions: This study ultimately underscores the transformative power of contemporary dance in shaping social discourse and advocacy.