I. What is Tutting?
Tutting is a style of dance that involves creating geometric shapes and movements with the hands and arms. It originated in the hip-hop community and has since become popular in various dance circles around the world. Tutting is characterized by sharp, angular movements that mimic the movements of an Egyptian pharaoh’s arms and hands. The name “tutting” comes from the resemblance of the movements to the poses found in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics.
II. Origins of Tutting
Tutting can be traced back to the early 1970s in the streets of Los Angeles, where dancers would incorporate robotic movements and angular shapes into their routines. Over time, tutting evolved into a distinct style of dance that has its roots in hip-hop culture. The dance style gained mainstream popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, thanks to music videos and movies that featured dancers showcasing their tutting skills.
III. Basic Tutting Techniques
To start learning tutting, it’s important to master some basic techniques. One of the fundamental moves in tutting is the “box,” where the dancer creates a square shape with their hands and arms. Another basic move is the “wave,” where the dancer moves their hands in a fluid, wave-like motion. Other basic techniques include finger tutting, where the dancer uses their fingers to create intricate shapes, and wrist rolls, where the dancer rotates their wrists in a circular motion.
IV. Advanced Tutting Moves
Once you have mastered the basic tutting techniques, you can move on to more advanced moves. These include intricate hand isolations, where the dancer moves each finger independently to create complex shapes. Another advanced move is the “tut combo,” where the dancer combines multiple tutting techniques into a seamless routine. Advanced tutters also incorporate footwork and body movements into their routines to add complexity and flair to their performances.
V. Common Mistakes in Tutting
One common mistake that beginners make in tutting is rushing through the movements. Tutting is all about precision and control, so it’s important to take your time and focus on each movement. Another common mistake is neglecting to practice both sides of the body equally. It’s important to work on both your dominant and non-dominant sides to ensure that your movements are balanced and symmetrical. Finally, many beginners struggle with maintaining a relaxed posture while tutting. It’s important to stay loose and fluid in your movements to achieve the desired effect.
VI. Tips for Mastering Tutting
To master tutting, it’s important to practice regularly and consistently. Set aside dedicated time each day to work on your tutting skills and focus on improving your technique. It can also be helpful to watch tutorials and videos of experienced tutters to learn new moves and get inspiration for your own routines. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different variations of moves to find your own unique style. Finally, remember to have fun and enjoy the process of learning and mastering this intricate and visually stunning dance style. With dedication and practice, you can become a skilled tutter and impress audiences with your creativity and precision.