Jazz hands, in performance dance, is the extension of a performer's hands with palms toward the audience and fingers splayed. It is commonly associated with especially exuberant types of performance such as musicals, cheerleading, and show choir. In cheerleading, the position with arms outstretched and fingers wiggling up and down is sometimes referred to as spirit fingers.[1]
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Description
The basic jazz hands position is defined by open hands with palms facing forward, and the fingers splayed.[2] Forearms are usually extended upward; alternatively, they may extend forward with the elbows held close to the body, or to the sides or downward. The hands may be shaken for added effect, as if holding a tambourine. However, this is not a necessary part of the position.[3]
History
The gesture is featured prominently in the 1927 film The Jazz Singer starring Al Jolson.
Contemporary references to the gesture are found in the films Waiting for Guffman and Bring It On, and on the animated sitcom, The Simpsons.
References
External links
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