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QUESTION 11: CHOREOGRAPHERS AND DANCE WORKS Answer this question by referring to ANY TWO of the prescribed choreographers below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 11 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 11
QUESTION 11: CHOREOGRAPHERS AND DANCE WORKS Answer this question by referring to ANY TWO of the prescribed choreographers below. INTERNATIONAL CHOREOGRAPHERS Alvin ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:QUESTION 11: CHOREOGRAPHERS AND DANCE WORKS Answer this question by referring to ANY TWO of the prescribed choreographers below - NSC Dance Studies - Question 11 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
11.1 Give the names of the TWO choreographers and each dance work that you chose.
Answer
The two choreographers I chose are George Balanchine and Alvin Ailey. The dance works associated with them are 'Apollo' choreographed by George Balanchine and 'Revelations' choreographed by Alvin Ailey.
Step 2
11.2 Give biographical information on the TWO choreographers who you referred to in QUESTION 11.1 and explain their different backgrounds and training.
Answer
George Balanchine was born in 1904 in St. Petersburg, Russia, and is often referred to as the father of American ballet. He founded the New York City Ballet and developed the neoclassical style, which emphasized choreography over elaborate sets and costumes. His training included a rigorous education at the Imperial Ballet School.
Alvin Ailey was born in 1931 in Texas and was a pioneering force in modern dance. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, focusing on African American cultural themes. The choreography training he received was influenced by both modern and traditional African dance, leading him to integrate these styles into his works.
Step 3
11.3 Use the movement vocabulary and production elements to explain the TWO choreographers that you named in QUESTION 11, communicated the themes of their works. Elaborate and give examples.
Answer
In Balanchine's 'Apollo', the movement vocabulary includes classical ballet techniques such as strong pliés and elegant pas de deux, which symbolize the evolution of the character Apollo. The production elements, like the stark, luminous backdrop, highlight Apollo’s journey as a god of music and arts. The choreography captures his interactions with the muses, representing inspiration and creativity.
In 'Revelations', Ailey utilizes jazz, blues, and modern dance elements, reflecting the African American experience. The movements are often grounded, rich with emotion, conveying themes of struggle and hope. The vibrant costumes and dynamic staging enhance the narrative of each section, from the ecstatic joy in 'Wade in the Water' to the deep sorrow portrayed in 'Take Me to the Water'.
Step 4
11.4 Considering all the producers and choreographers that you have studied, give your opinion of the ONE you enjoy the most and the impact it had on you.
Answer
The choreographer I enjoy the most is Alvin Ailey. The impact of 'Revelations' on me was profound; it opened my eyes to the beauty of storytelling through dance. Each section evokes raw emotion, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the themes of faith, identity, and resilience. The combination of powerful movements and soul-stirring music has inspired me to appreciate the depth of cultural narratives in dance, influencing my perspective on performance and expression.