INTERNATIONAL DANCE WORK (Choice question) You have been on a field trip to see a production of one of the prescribed international dance works listed below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 11 - 2016 - Paper 1

The ballet begins with Apollo on a rocky island, where Leto, his mother, gives birth to him. In the opening scene, Apollo is approached by three muses who embody different forms of art: Calliope (poetry), Polyhymnia (mime), and Terpsichore (dance). Each muse presents Apollo with gifts that symbolize their respective arts, which reflects the intent of the ballet to celebrate creativity and the arts.

The production elements include:

• Costumes/Make-up: The dancers wear luminous and elegant costumes that connect with ancient Greek themes, enhancing the narrative.
• Sets/Props: The scenic design uses a simple backdrop to depict the rocky island, symbolizing the origins of Apollo's journey.
• Lighting: Soft lighting enhances the ethereal quality of the performance, particularly during the gifts presented by the muses.

Balanchine's choreography integrates classical ballet with innovative movements and gestures. The use of space, time, and dynamics is essential in conveying the character's emotions. For instance, the pas de deux between Apollo and Terpsichore involves intricate lifts and balances that highlight the relationship between the divine and the human.

The symbolic elements in Apollo include:

• The Luminous Background: Represents Apollo's divine nature and the sacredness of his character.
• The Muses' Gifts: Each gift symbolizes a facet of artistry, emphasizing the collaborative nature of creativity in the arts.
• Apollo's Lute: Serves as a metaphor for harmony and inspiration, reinforcing the essence of musicality in dance.

1. Use of Staging: Balanchine's innovative use of staging, including levels and formations, enhances the visual storytelling, creating a dynamic interaction among the dancers.
2. Integration of Music and Movement: The seamless integration of Stravinsky's score with choreography allows for a rich dialogue between music and dance, delivering a profound artistic experience.