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

'Apollo' deals with the evolution and growth of the character Apollo from boy to man. The ballet opens with the birth of Apollo against a luminous blue backdrop, depicting his formative journey through various stages of life. The piece intends to explore themes of maturity, creativity, and the acquisition of knowledge, as represented by the muses who inspire him.

The production elements of 'Apollo' include a minimalist set design with a blue backdrop symbolizing the sky, and simple yet elegant costumes that highlight the classical nature of ballet. The lighting is used to create the mood, transitioning between soft hues for the early scenes and brighter tones as Apollo's confidence grows.

The movement vocabulary of 'Apollo' incorporates classical ballet techniques such as pas de deux and grand jetés, emphasizing fluidity and grace. Balanchine's style integrates unique elements, including sharp, angular movements and unexpected transitions that challenge traditional forms.

The blue backdrop symbolizes the divine inspiration and vast potential that Apollo embodies. Each muse represents different aspects of creativity: Calliope for poetry, Polyhymnia for sacred music, and Terpsichore for dance, each contributing to Apollo's artistic journey.

One innovative aspect of 'Apollo' is its use of a minimalist set, focusing attention on the dancers and their narrative, which was a departure from the elaborate productions of the time. Another innovative feature is Balanchine's reinterpretation of musicality in dance, allowing the movements to respond dynamically to Stravinsky's score, thus creating a cohesive blend of music and motion.