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 'Apollo' focuses on the evolution of the young god from boyhood to adulthood. It revolves around themes of artistic creation and growth. The work begins with Apollo being born, and he is subsequently visited by the three muses, who symbolize different aspects of art: poetry, dance, and music. The intent of the work is to celebrate the development of artistic expression.

The production of 'Apollo' features a minimalist set design, which includes a luminous blue background that represents the sky and a high rock structure signifying Mount Parnassus. The costumes are elegant and simplistic, often inspired by classical Greek attire, thereby emphasizing the ethereal nature of the characters.

The movement vocabulary in 'Apollo' is rooted in classical ballet but introduces innovative elements. It features smooth, flowing movements as well as sharp, dynamic changes. The choreography also incorporates elements of gesture and mime, effectively conveying the emotional states of the characters.

The ballet symbolizes the journey of creativity and inspiration. The three muses represent the diverse facets of art, while Apollo's interactions with them depict the collaborative nature of artistic expression. The rock motif symbolizes the foundation of art upon which Apollo builds his creations.

Firstly, the integration of modern dance elements into classical ballet allowed for greater expressiveness and dynamism, setting a precedent for future choreographers. Secondly, the use of lighting and color to reflect the emotional undertones of the dance was innovative; the subtle shifts in stage lighting highlighted the transitions in Apollo's character and mood throughout the performance.