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Write an essay and include the following from the recommended international choreographer Alvin Ailey and his dance work, Revelations - NSC Dance Studies - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 6
Write an essay and include the following from the recommended international choreographer Alvin Ailey and his dance work, Revelations. 6.1 Where does the title of t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write an essay and include the following from the recommended international choreographer Alvin Ailey and his dance work, Revelations - NSC Dance Studies - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
6.1 Where does the title of this dance work come from?
Answer
The title "Revelations" is rooted in the themes of spirituality and enlightenment. Ailey chose this title to encapsulate the transformative experience the dancers undergo, revealing the emotional struggles and triumphs of their cultural heritage.
Step 2
6.2 Revelations is divided into THREE sections. Name and describe each section.
Answer
The dance work is divided into three distinct sections:
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Pilgrim's Sorrow: This section portrays the suffering and struggles faced by the Black community. The choreography features simple yet powerful movements that express a deep sense of sorrow and resistance.
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Take Me to the Water: This section presents a spiritual cleansing ritual. The dancers depict a journey to a river for baptism, symbolizing redemption and hope. The rising and falling movements mimic the natural flow of water, providing a visual representation of spiritual rebirth.
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Move Members Move: In this climactic section, the energy builds dramatically as dancers engage in lively and vibrant movement, reflecting joy and communal spirit. It concludes with a sense of celebration, showcasing the resilience of the community.
Step 3
6.3 Give an explanation of the costumes used in each section.
Answer
The costumes designed by Lawrence Maldonado contribute significantly to the work's themes:
- Pilgrim's Sorrow: Dancers wear muted tones, representing the somber themes of struggle and pain.
- Take Me to the Water: Bright colors symbolize hope and spiritual cleansing, with flowing fabrics that enhance the water imagery.
- Move Members Move: Costumes feature lively colors, reflecting the joy and energy of the celebration.
Step 4
6.4 Explain the music used in the dance work.
Answer
The music in 'Revelations' incorporates traditional spiritual and gospel songs. It plays a vital role in setting the emotional tone, communicating themes of pain, hope, and deliverance. The uplifting nature of the music complements the choreography, enhancing the narrative throughout each section.
Step 5
6.5 Provide information about the people who influenced Ailey’s choreographic style and the dance style used in Revelations.
Answer
Ailey's style was influenced by several key figures:
- Lester Horton: His emphasis on the physicality of the body informed Ailey's use of stark movements.
- Martha Graham: Her techniques of contraction and release helped shape Ailey's narrative style.
- Jack Cole: Recognized for his innovative approaches to jazz dance, Cole's influence is evident in Ailey's integration of various dance styles, melding ballet, modern, and African dance influences into a cohesive aesthetic.
Step 6
6.6 How did the choreographer bring the intended message of the dance work across to the audience through the use of symbolic movements?
Answer
Ailey effectively conveyed the dance's message through various symbolic movements in 'Revelations':
- The gestures of prayer and homage represented hope for spiritual enlightenment.
- Movements depicting the struggle against oppression showcased resilience and the quest for freedom.
- The finale's climactic energetic ensemble highlighted community strength and joy, reinforcing the work's core messages of triumph and cultural pride.