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How do you think Christopher Bruce would have answered the question above with regard to why he choreographed Ghost Dances? What events motivated Christopher Bruce to choreograph Ghost Dances? Elaborate on how Bruce used the production elements, music and movement vocabulary to build the characterisation and atmosphere of the following: The Ghosts The Dead (villagers) Select important background information on Christopher Bruce's professional career as a choreographer that may be included in a programme note. - NSC Dance Studies - Question 10 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 10
How do you think Christopher Bruce would have answered the question above with regard to why he choreographed Ghost Dances? What events motivated Christopher Bruce ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How do you think Christopher Bruce would have answered the question above with regard to why he choreographed Ghost Dances? What events motivated Christopher Bruce to choreograph Ghost Dances? Elaborate on how Bruce used the production elements, music and movement vocabulary to build the characterisation and atmosphere of the following: The Ghosts The Dead (villagers) Select important background information on Christopher Bruce's professional career as a choreographer that may be included in a programme note. - NSC Dance Studies - Question 10 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
How do you think Christopher Bruce would have answered the question above with regard to why he choreographed Ghost Dances?
Answer
Christopher Bruce would likely articulate that his choreography in Ghost Dances emerged from a deep concern for human rights and the impact of political turmoil in South America, particularly the oppression experienced during Pinochet's regime. He viewed dance as a powerful medium to convey messages of suffering and resilience, thus intertwining beauty with social commentary.
Step 2
What events motivated Christopher Bruce to choreograph Ghost Dances?
Answer
Bruce was motivated by the historical events surrounding the oppression of citizens in Chile, particularly the victims of political violence. The works of Victor Jara, a Chilean folk singer who was tortured and killed for his political beliefs, profoundly influenced him. His intent was to capture the continuous devastation faced by the innocent and to celebrate their untold stories through dance.
Step 3
Elaborate on how Bruce used the production elements, music and movement vocabulary to build the characterisation and atmosphere of the following:
Answer
Bruce's production elements, particularly the set and costumes, create an immersive atmosphere. For the Ghosts, the use of skull-like masks conceals identities, generating an eerie feeling of anonymity. The setting of rocky Andean landscapes encapsulates the waiting and suffering experienced by the Dead, while the music, influenced by Andean folk traditions, enriches the emotional tone. His movement vocabulary involves a mix of fluidity and rigidity, reflecting the tension between life and death, ultimately conveying the themes of memory and loss.
Step 4
The Ghosts
Answer
The Ghosts are depicted as universal representations of suffering, embodying the fear and anxiety of victims awaiting their fate. Their choreography involves sharp, angular movements that reflect alertness and vigilance, while the costumes depict the bleakness of their existence, enhancing the ominous atmosphere on stage.
Step 5
The Dead (villagers)
Answer
The Dead are portrayed with a contrasting softness in their movements, illustrating their memories and defiance. The use of vibrant colors and intricate patterns in their costumes symbolizes individuality and cultural identity. Their choreography often involves joyous celebrations intertwined with moments of despair, emphasizing their resilience amidst adversity.
Step 6
Select important background information on Christopher Bruce's professional career as a choreographer that may be included in a programme note.
Answer
Christopher Bruce's career as a choreographer began with his involvement in significant dance companies, such as the Royal Ballet and the Rambert Dance Company. He is renowned for his ability to blend narrative and abstract concepts in choreography. Bruce has focused on socially relevant themes, with many works inspired by human rights issues, thus establishing himself as a pivotal figure in the world of contemporary dance.