DANCE WORK
Choose ONE dance work that you have studied from the list below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 7 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 7
DANCE WORK
Choose ONE dance work that you have studied from the list below.
INTERNATIONAL CHOREOGRAPHERS DANCE WORKS
George Balanchine ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:DANCE WORK
Choose ONE dance work that you have studied from the list below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 7 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Design a mind map
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Answer
The name of the dance work
For this mind map, I have chosen Revelations choreographed by Alvin Ailey.
Storyline/Theme/Synopsis/Intent
Revelations explores the African American experience through a variety of themes, including pain, faith, and joy. The work takes the audience on a journey that showcases the strength of the human spirit while reflecting cultural heritage and community.
Production elements
Lighting Design: The use of warm colors during joyful sections and cooler tones during somber moments enhances the emotional impact.
Costume Design: Costumes are designed to reflect traditional African attire, emphasizing the connection to cultural roots.
Set Design: Minimalistic backgrounds allow dancers to be the focus, emphasizing their movements.
Props: Occasionally hand-held props can be utilized for dramatic effect.
Music/Accompaniment
Revelations features traditional spirituals and gospel music that underpin the movement, setting the emotional tone. The rhythm and dynamics of the music correspond with the dancers’ movements, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the dance.
Step 2
Analyse the movement vocabulary and symbolic meaning
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Answer
In Revelations, movement vocabulary includes:
Gestures: Reaching, grasping, and uplifting movements symbolize hope and aspiration.
Fused movements: The combination of African dance with contemporary technique expresses a rich cultural heritage.
Styles: Various sections highlight different dance styles, such as modern dance and classical ballet, emphasizing the diversity of the African American experience.
Specific examples of movement:
'Take Me to the Water' showcases flowing movements that symbolize baptism and rebirth, illustrating themes of purification and spirituality.
'Wade in the Water' features strong, angular movements that reflect the struggle and resilience of African Americans.
Overall: The choreography uses movement to convey powerful narratives of love, loss, and triumph.