The dances are inspired by two world famous landmarks from Egypt and Italy - the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and the Colosseum in Rome.
2. From the Pyramids at Giza to the Colosseum
The second dance session explores themes from Ancient Egypt and Ancient Rome. The dark, mysterious passages of the Great Pyramid of Giza are explored between group sequences inspired by hieroglyphs and stylised Egyptian wall paintings. Then the massive circular form of the Colosseum in Rome provides a setting for partners to perform a carefully choreographed, slow-motion combat sequence inspired by the gladiatorial games.
Resources
Download the audio for this dance session as an mp3 file
Download / print guidance on using the dance sessions in this unit (pdf)
Lesson summary
Warm up: Step-hopping through the spaces, then controlled stretches.
Pyramids of Giza: Groups of 3-4 explore tunnels and passages, alternating with ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic-inspired poses in the Queen's Chamber (angular shapes) and King's Chamber (animals and hunting), then move a heavy stone at the Mystery Chamber.
Egypt to Rome: Group lines form a class circle representing the Ancient Roman Colosseum.
Gladiators: Pairs perform a combat sequence in slow motion.
Cool down: Relaxing stretches.
Other units of KS2 Dance Workshop
Extreme sports. collection
Time to get physical with dance sequences inspired kayaking, rock climbing, snowboarding and sky-diving.
In the gym. collection
Two dance sessions focusing on personal health and fitness inspired by a gym workout.
South American Carnival. collection
Three sessions exploring the samba rhythms and steps of the Rio Carnival.
