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Write an essay and include the following from the recommended international choreographer Alvin Ailey and his dance work, Revelations - NSC Dance Studies - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 6
Write an essay and include the following from the recommended international choreographer Alvin Ailey and his dance work, Revelations. 6.1 Where does the title of t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write an essay and include the following from the recommended international choreographer Alvin Ailey and his dance work, Revelations - NSC Dance Studies - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Where does the title of this dance work come from?
Answer
The title 'Revelations' is derived from Ailey's personal experiences and the cultural significance of African American spirituality. It represents a spiritual awakening and the journey of self-identity and catharsis, showcasing the emotional struggles and triumphs of the Black community.
Step 2
Revelations is divided into THREE sections. Name and describe each section.
Answer
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Pilgrim's Sorrow: This section depicts the suffering and resilience of the Black community, showcasing powerful yet simple movements that express sorrow and rebellion.
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Take Me to the Water: The narrative unfolds with characters coming from a church, emphasizing themes of cleansing and redemption. The movements are both classical and contemporary, illustrating one's connection to nature and spirituality.
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Move Members Move: This section is vibrant and energetic, emphasizing joyous expressions with a group of elegantly dressed dancers celebrating community and unity through intricate choreography.
Step 3
Give an explanation of the costumes used in each section.
Answer
The costumes were designed by Lawrence Maldonado and varied across sections:
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Pilgrim's Sorrow: The dancers wore costumes in somber hues of red, orange, and yellow to symbolize pain and hope.
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Take Me to the Water: The second section featured flowy dresses and ties to represent the fluidity of water, enhancing the storytelling.
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Move Members Move: This section was characterized by bright colors and dynamic outfits, reflecting the celebratory nature of the movements.
Step 4
Explain the music used in the dance work.
Answer
The music in 'Revelations' consists of traditional spiritual and gospel songs that embody the emotional weight of the narratives. It encompasses themes of sorrow and hope, serving to amplify the dancers' movements and enhance the storytelling aspects of the performance.
Step 5
Provide information about the people who influenced Ailey’s choreographic style and the dance style used in Revelations.
Answer
Alvin Ailey's choreographic style was influenced by various figures: Lester Horton, known for his emphasis on body movement; Martha Graham, who introduced contractions and releases; and Jack Cole, who contributed jazz techniques. Ailey's work reflects a blend of these influences, combining classical ballet, modern dance, and African American cultural elements.
Step 6
How did the choreographer bring the intended message of the dance work across to the audience through the use of symbolic movements?
Answer
Ailey's choreography integrates symbolic movements to communicate deep emotional narratives. For instance, the dancers express pain through movements that mimic prayer and longing, while celebratory movements at the end invoke a sense of community and resilience. This juxtaposition effectively conveys the journey from suffering to hope.