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8.1 Describe Vincent Mantsoe's background, training and career - NSC Dance Studies - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 8
8.1 Describe Vincent Mantsoe's background, training and career. Vincent Mantsoe was born into a family that followed strict African tradition and cultural practices... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:8.1 Describe Vincent Mantsoe's background, training and career - NSC Dance Studies - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
8.1 Describe Vincent Mantsoe's background, training and career.
Answer
Vincent Mantsoe's journey into dance began in a culturally rich environment. Born into a family that adhered to traditional African rituals, perhaps sparked by his mother and grandmother's involvement in singing and dancing as sangomas, he developed a deep connection to the art form. Though he never became a sangoma himself, he actively participated in these cultural expressions.
Starting his dance career at a young age, Mantsoe joined a dance group called The Joy Dancers, which introduced him to various dance styles. His exposure to Western influences, particularly through figures like Michael Jackson, allowed him to innovate and create his unique style.
Mantsoe's formal training began at the Moving into Dance (MID) Community Dance School, under the guidance of Sylvia Glasser, a pioneer of Afro-fusion dance styles. Mantsoe honed his skills and expanded his knowledge of different African and contemporary dance styles during this time.
In 1992, he graduated from MID, continuing as a dance educator and inspiring many professionals in the field. He now resides in France but frequently returns to South Africa, where he engages with local artists, fostering a connection between traditional and contemporary dance forms.
Step 2
8.2.1 The movement vocabulary and symbolism
Answer
The movement vocabulary in 'Gula Matari' is heavily inspired by the natural world, specifically the behavior and movement of birds. Each gesture reflects the fluidity and grace intrinsic to bird life. For instance, bent joints in arms and legs create the sensation of fluttering wings, which signifies the transformation of the dancer into the spirit of a bird.
Sharp and quick head movements echo the sudden motions of birds as they take flight or quickly scan their surroundings. The use of body shapes and lines resembles a bird's flight path, with curvilinear forms contrasting against the straight lines often seen in human dance.
Furthermore, the arms function like wings; their movements often mimic the flapping or gliding of birds. This intention in the choreography enhances the narrative of the piece, creating a dialogue between the dancer and nature.
Step 3
8.2.2 The production elements
Answer
In 'Gula Matari', the production elements synergize seamlessly to enhance the overall theme of the performance:
Costumes: The attire is meticulously crafted to reflect the essence of birds. Male dancers don baggy calf-length pants adorned with bird designs, while female dancers wear a short skirt with a silhouette reminiscent of feathers. This camouflaged appearance amplifies the symbolic connection to nature.
Set Design: A minimalistic stage allows for the audience to project their interpretations and imaginations onto the performance, framing it within their own experiential context.
Lighting: The lighting design plays an integral role, utilizing dark blue hues to juxtapose with brighter elements, symbolizing both the dawn and twilight phases of the day. White light is strategically employed to highlight the dancers, enhancing their visual interactions.
Step 4
8.3 Evaluate how the music enhanced the dance work.
Answer
The music composed by Gabrielle Roth serves as a vital component of 'Gula Matari,' intricately woven into the dance narrative. Roth's ability to evoke emotion through sound plays a crucial role in building the atmosphere that surrounds the dancers. The rhythmic drumming punctuated by moments of quietude encapsulates the essence of nature, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
These moments of quietness align beautifully with the choreography, reflecting the subtleties of bird movements and heightening the tension in the performance. As the music intensifies, so does the choreography, mirroring the increasing presence of birds, culminating in a dynamic yet focused conclusion with a singular dancer remaining on stage.
Moreover, the use of whistles further connects the dancers to their avian counterparts, reinforcing themes of communication found in nature. This interplay between music and movement not only supports the dancers' expressions but also encapsulates the thematic core of the work.
Step 5
8.4 Vincent Mantsoe drew on his own heritage and used this as an inspiration for his own choreography.
Answer
Vincent Mantsoe's integration of his heritage into his choreography has undoubtedly influenced South African dancers and choreographers. By incorporating traditional African dance forms and narratives, he bridges the gap between contemporary and cultural practices, creating a rich tapestry of movement that resonates with both local and international audiences.
His emphasis on storytelling through dance allows young choreographers to explore their own cultural roots, encouraging a resurgence of traditional themes within modern frameworks. Furthermore, Mantsoe's work fosters an environment where dancers can express their identity, enhancing the diversity of South African dance as a whole.
In this way, his impact extends beyond his performances; it nurtures a new generation of artists who draw inspiration from their cultural heritage, ensuring its continuation and evolution in future dance endeavors.