Photo AI
Write an article for a dance magazine elaborating on how Alfred Hinkel used his dance work, Bolero/Last Dance, to change the face of dance in South Africa - NSC Dance Studies - Question 11 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 11
Write an article for a dance magazine elaborating on how Alfred Hinkel used his dance work, Bolero/Last Dance, to change the face of dance in South Africa. Include ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write an article for a dance magazine elaborating on how Alfred Hinkel used his dance work, Bolero/Last Dance, to change the face of dance in South Africa - NSC Dance Studies - Question 11 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the sociopolitical influences that led to the development of this dance work.
Answer
Alfred Hinkel's Bolero/Last Dance emerged from a rich tapestry of sociopolitical contexts in South Africa. His experiences teaching in the Coloured communities, lacking proper facilities, spurred a unique approach to dance teaching and choreography. The piece was originally created during a tumultuous time marked by the apartheid system, specifically aimed at addressing the controversial Immorality Act. This period of political unrest influenced the emotional depth and urgency in the choreography, aiming to comment on the harsh realities faced by mixed-race couples. The national state of emergency further provided an impetus for Hinkel to integrate messages of hope and resistance into his work.
Step 2
Give specific examples of how the music and production elements were used to complement this dance work.
Answer
The musical score for Bolero/Last Dance is intricate, requiring a full orchestra and featuring varied instrumentation that supports the dance's emotional arc. Initially composed with a repetitive melody, it builds intensity as more instruments join in, creating a rich soundscape. The use of lighting, which remains consistent across performances, plays a critical role in enhancing the climactic moments of the dance. Costumes and gumboots are integral to the performance, echoing the cultural roots and adding layers of meaning to the visual narrative.
Step 3
Elaborate on the characteristics of Hinkel's dance style.
Answer
Hinkel’s dance style is characterized by a blend of contemporary and traditional elements, reflecting both technical precision and emotional storytelling. He emphasizes the importance of imparting practical skills to untrained dancers from underprivileged backgrounds, nurturing their potential and encouraging creativity. Hinkel draws heavily from African dance forms, incorporating release technique and contact improvisation, which revolutionized the typical approaches to choreography. His works often reflect sociopolitical themes that resonate with the dancers’ experiences and the audience's context.
Step 4
Evaluate what made this dance work so innovative for its time.
Answer
Bolero/Last Dance broke new ground by being one of the first works to invite serious engagement with the political landscape through dance. The use of gumboots, traditionally associated with lesser-known dance forms, added a raw and authentic layer to the performance. Hinkel’s willingness to address politically charged subjects through dance—while using a cast of diverse performers—was revolutionary. The piece not only entertained but also provoked thought, fostering discussions around race, identity, and social justice. This artistic fusion of message and movement established Bolero/Last Dance as a cornerstone in the evolution of South African dance.