Final answer:
Communal dances involve participants, unity, long sets and circles formations for audience engagement, ritual behavior affecting brain chemistry, and individual and group expression. Gumboot dancing and Steppin' are examples that illustrate these aspects of communal dance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Communal dances involve participants and several other key elements that enhance the experience and meaning of the dance. Many communal dances emphasize unity and solidarity, like those performed by workers from various ethnic groups in mining communities. They often create a sense of shared love for music and dance through synchronous movements.
Common formations in these dances include long sets and circles, which not only facilitate but also encourage audience participation. This was evident in early performances in mining communities and at universities, where performers danced in circles surrounded by the audience. This setup allows for a collective experience where everyone feels engaged and an integral part of the performance.
The psychological and ritual behavior observed in communal dances like trance dancing is known to alter brain chemistry, increasing serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin levels, enhancing feelings of joy, a desire to repeat the experience, and a sense of closeness among the participants.
Moreover, communal dances such as gumboot dancing and Steppin' not only rely on group unity but also celebrate individual talents with improvisations, while maintaining the uniqueness of different dance troupes. These dances have evolved to connect audiences beyond mere entertainment, extending to educational roles and contributing to the development of culturally sensitive individuals.