Kansei Information and Movement Characteristics Related to the Expression of Joy in Dance: An Investigation for Analyzing Rousing and Stimulating Dance Motions

This experiment investigated the kansei information and movement characteristics that observers use to perceive expressions of joy in dance. Expressing joy with movements by dancers was recorded. Observers then rated words related to kansei and characteristics of the movements. The results of factor analyses and multiple regression analyses indicated that the expression of joy in dance has particular features. Joy in dance consists of gDynamics, h gExtensity, h gStability, h gFlowing, h gFlexion of the body, h gUpward extension of the limbs, h gForward movement, h gUpward movement, h gDiagonally forward locomotion, h and gWalking. h Stability, movements using space with little downward movement and more upward extension of the limbs, tended to have a greater effect on perceiving movements as expressing joy.