SOUTH AFRICAN/INTERNATIONAL CHOREOGRAPHER (CHOICE QUESTION) Choose ONE of the SOUTH AFRICAN or INTERNATIONAL choreographer and one of their dance works from the prescribed list above - NSC Dance Studies - Question 7 - 2017 - Paper 1

Alfred Hinkel hails from Namaqaland and began dancing at a young age, overcoming initial familial resistance. After receiving his early training at the University of Cape Town, he returned to his roots in Namakwa to create impactful dance initiatives. Hinkel's dance work, "Bolero," exhibits a continual evolution across various performances, significant for its political undertones and collaborations with institutions like the Grahamstown Festival and CAPAB. His work reflects a commitment to representing cultural narratives and critiques against societal norms in South Africa, drawn from his experiences and collaborations with local dance groups.

"Bolero" serves as a powerful narrative reflecting the complexities of race and identity within South Africa, manifested through movement. The piece juxtaposes traditional and contemporary forms, underlining socio-political messages that resonate with the audience. The intent is to provoke thought regarding the historical context of oppression and the future of unity, emphasizing how dance can serve as a form of resistance.

In 'Bolero,' costume design plays a crucial role in conveying the thematic elements of the performance. Hinkel utilizes a palette of black and white, symbolizing the dualities present in South African society, with all dancers donning similar styles to evoke unity and collective identity. The lighting is orchestrated to reflect mood shifts, predominantly featuring red, blue, and white lights which enhance emotional engagement, while the set design is minimal yet impactful, designed to focus the audience's attention on the performers' movements and interactions.

The music for "Bolero" is derived from Maurice Ravel's composition, characterized by a repetitive structure that mirrors the dancers' movements. The orchestration builds progressively, allowing the dancers to synchronize their actions, thus creating a resonant harmony between sound and movement. The musical motif instills a sense of anticipation, while the simplicity of its melodic lines provides a canvas for expressive choreography.

Alfred Hinkel has made substantial contributions to the South African dance landscape, addressing socio-political issues through his choreography. His establishment of the Jazzart Dance Theatre and his work with various communities exemplify his commitment to uplift local narratives. Hinkel's influence extends beyond performance, as he actively engages in education and mentorship within the dance community, advocating for the importance of dance as a means of cultural expression and social commentary.