1980s Jazz Dance: Energy, Style, and
Innovation
What is 1980s Jazz Dance?
Jazz dance in the 1980s is known for its high energy, theatrical flair, and fusion of styles. It
combines elements of classical jazz, Broadway, funk, and early hip-hop to create dynamic,
expressive movement. During this era, jazz dance became highly visible through music videos,
stage performances, and television, making it a cultural phenomenon.
Key Characteristics of 1980s Jazz Dance
● High energy and athleticism: Jumping, kicks, turns, and sharp isolations were
emphasized.
● Theatrical style: Strong storytelling, dramatic gestures, and stage presence were
central.
● Influences from funk and pop: Movement was often syncopated, with strong musicality
reflecting contemporary music trends.
● Commercial visibility: Dance was shaped by television, commercials, and music
videos (e.g., MTV).
● Fusion: Traditional jazz techniques blended with modern, funk, and street dance
influences.
Historical Context
The 1980s were a time of media expansion in the United States, with music videos, movies,
and Broadway shows reaching global audiences. Jazz dance became a commercialized,
highly performative style, influenced by:
● Broadway musicals and theatrical jazz
● Funk, disco, and pop music trends
● The rise of dance-centered music videos (MTV era)
During this decade, jazz dance was both a professional art form and a popular
entertainment medium, inspiring countless young dancers.
Influential Choreographers of the 1980s
Choreographer Contributions / Style
Bob Fosse Though his career began earlier, Fosse’s influence remained strong;
(1927–1987) stylized jazz with isolated movements, turned-in knees, sharp hand
gestures, and theatrical storytelling.
Matt Mattox Known for “freestyle” jazz technique emphasizing isolation, speed, and
(1927–2013) strength; continued influencing commercial jazz in the 1980s.
Michael Peters Choreographed iconic music videos, including Michael Jackson’s Thriller
(1948–1994) and Beat It; blended theatricality, funk, and street-style elements.
Peggy Holmes Broadway and commercial jazz choreographer; known for combining
storytelling with high-energy movement.
Mia Michaels Emerging in late 1980s as a contemporary-jazz innovator; expressive,
(born 1966) dramatic choreography blending technical skill and emotion.
Lester Wilson Broadway and film jazz choreographer; incorporated funk and pop
(1942–1993) influences; worked with Diana Ross and other major artists.
Note: Many 1980s choreographers bridged commercial, stage, and television
dance, helping jazz evolve from theater-focused to widely recognized pop culture
form.
Notable Platforms for 1980s Jazz
● MTV music videos (Michael Jackson, Madonna)
● Television specials (e.g., Solid Gold, dance sequences on variety shows)
● Broadway and touring productions (e.g., A Chorus Line, Cats)
● Commercial dance companies and studios (training dancers in jazz technique for film,
TV, and stage)
Legacy of 1980s Jazz Dance
● Popularized high-energy, theatrical jazz internationally
● Influenced music videos, commercial dance, and modern jazz styles today
● Served as a bridge between traditional jazz and contemporary/fusion dance forms
