Final answer:
The question appears to be about a dance performance where dancers begin on chairs in a large group, which is characteristic of certain communal dances that emphasize solidarity and unity. Specific dances are not mentioned, but examples in art and history such as 'The Dance Class' by Degas and Matisse's 'La Danse' reflect the community spirit associated with such performances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question appears to pertain to a specific dance piece where a large group of dancers starts the performance seated on chairs. One prominent work that fits this description is 'The Dance Class' by Edgar Degas, although it is a painting and not a dance performance. However, the collaborative nature of dance as an act of solidarity among workers from various ethnic backgrounds in mines, as mentioned, suggests the focus is on a form of folk dance or a dance representing social unity. These performances often involve synchronous movements, circles, and audience participation, reflecting the community and relationships among the dancers and with the audience.
Historically, dances in the yard and mining communities would take a form akin to this, with circle formations for audience involvement, which was common in early gumboot dances and yard steppin'. The described setting of dancers on chairs might also invoke thoughts of Matisse's 'La Danse' as it is well-known for depicting dancers in motion and contributing to the essence of communal and expressive dance, although it depicts neither chairs nor a specific dance performance.
Without a specific dance name provided in the question, it's challenging to pinpoint an exact dance work. Nonetheless, understanding the communal aspect of dance can shed light on how such performances act as expressions of unity and cultural storytelling.