Contemporary dance originated in Europe and the United States after World War II, appearing on the heels of modern dance. For some, it grew from the seeds of postmodernism. Contemporary dance is the exploration of the total movement potential of the body. Unlike other forms of dance, it is not bound by set standards or defined styles. Instead, it seeks to express a personalized vision, often through experimentation and collaboration, in exploring new choreographic possibilities. It derives its techniques from both classical and modern dance, either updating or distorting them, resulting in a hybrid form derived from literature, architecture, visual arts, circus and other artistic disciplines.
