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Imagine you are Alvin Ailey and you are being interviewed - NSC Dance Studies - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 8
Imagine you are Alvin Ailey and you are being interviewed. Answer the following questions. Marks will be awarded for the correct format for an interview. Correct fo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Imagine you are Alvin Ailey and you are being interviewed - NSC Dance Studies - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Correct format for an interview.
Answer
To conduct a successful interview, it is essential to begin with a polite greeting and a thank you for the opportunity. Clarifying the purpose of the interview can help set the tone. It’s crucial to answer questions thoughtfully and to include personal anecdotes that reflect on one's experiences. Encourage a conversational flow to engage the audience.
Step 2
Describe your childhood.
Answer
I grew up in a very poor environment, where my family faced many hardships. My early years were spent with my mother, who instilled in me the values of resilience and faith. We often moved around, searching for better opportunities, which exposed me to various cultures and forms of expression from a young age.
Step 3
Explain how your upbringing helped to inspire some of your dance works.
Answer
My upbringing in South Texas during the era of racial segregation deeply influenced my works. The struggles of my community inspired themes of hope and perseverance in my choreography. The experiences of joy and sorrow I witnessed in my childhood became integral elements in my dance narrative, especially evident in works like Revelations.
Step 4
Outline your contribution to dance and society.
Answer
I founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater to provide a platform for black dancers and share our cultural narratives. Established in 1969, the company has educated countless audiences about African-American culture through dance. Furthermore, I initiated arts education programs to teach and inspire the next generation, ensuring broader access to the arts.
Step 5
Describe how you used production elements in the themes of 'Pilgrims of Sorrow' and 'Move Members Move', as shown in the images below.
Answer
In 'Pilgrims of Sorrow', the production elements such as lighting created an enhanced emotional ambiance, symbolizing struggle and hope. The use of costumes that reflected the historical context of African American suffering was critical. In 'Move Members Move', choreography intertwined with vivid lighting and simple yet profound movements conveyed themes of unity and collective strength.
Step 6
Explain how the music enhanced Revelations.
Answer
The music in Revelations, composed with layers of spirituals and gospel rhythms, enhances the emotional depth of the performance. Each piece is carefully chosen to reflect the narratives of overcoming struggles and celebrating life. The interplay between movement and music plays a vital role, elevating the dancers’ expressions and connecting with the audience on a spiritual level.
Step 7
Explain how you showed deep emotions in your movement vocabulary in 'Pilgrims of Sorrow' and 'Move Members Move'.
Answer
In 'Pilgrims of Sorrow', the movements reflect layers of pain and hope through gestures that symbolize reaching out and embracing. In 'Move Members Move', I employed strong, grounded movements that emphasized connection and unity among dancers. Techniques like dynamic contrasts and fluid transitions effectively communicated the emotional landscape of both pieces.
Step 8
In your opinion, what makes Revelations such a timeless piece?
Answer
Revelations resonates across generations due to its universal themes of faith, resilience, and the human experience. It celebrates African-American heritage while tackling issues of discrimination and justice. The emotional authenticity, paired with powerful choreography and compelling music, allows it to remain relevant and impactful in today’s society.